Kevin De Bruyne was at his scintillating best on Wednesday night at the Etihad Stadium. Pep Guardiola's decision to mix things up and adopt a tactic which undid Arsenal's high press worked to devastating effect and De Bruyne was at the heart of it.
His link-up play with Erling Haaland this season has been sensational but even those numb to the Manchester City dominance must have allowed themselves to enjoy what they were seeing.
In truth, this season has been no different from the several which have come before, for De Bruyne. His creative ability is second to none and has become an even bigger threat with Haaland at the club. ALSO READ: Guardiola hints that Alvarez could enforce rethink This is why you would have been forgiven for fearing the worst when Guardiola announced the Belgian was not fit enough to travel down to London on Sunday.
Chosen in his place was Julian Alvarez who has seen his chances limited somewhat thanks to Haaland's form. However, he has by no means disgraced himself when picked.