Introduction
Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne recently sparked a surprising debate on the popularity of cricket in Europe during a light-hearted quiz segment called ‘AI Showdown’ that featured his teammate James McAtee.
De Bruyne’s Unexpected Take on Cricket
While participating in a fun segment to identify the top five popular sports in Europe, De Bruyne was taken aback to learn that cricket ranks second, just behind football. His spontaneous reaction was disbelief:
- “How can cricket be second on the list? That’s a lie,” he remarked incredulously.
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Further expressing his astonishment, De Bruyne added, “I don’t know anybody in Europe who watches cricket, let’s be honest.”
Public Reaction to De Bruyne’s Comments
The footballer’s comments did not go unnoticed and prompted significant backlash on social media, with users pointing out the burgeoning popularity of cricket across various European nations.
Award-Winning Career and Future Uncertainties
Alongside his controversial statement, De Bruyne also confirmed his impending departure from Manchester City at the season’s end. His remarkable stint at the club includes:
- Six Premier League titles
- The prestigious Champions League trophy in 2023
- Being crowned Players’ Player of the Year in consecutive seasons (2019/2020, 2020/2021)
With 118 assists, he stands as the second all-time assist provider in the Premier League. Despite his contract expiring in June, it remains uncertain if he will appear at the Club World Cup.
De Bruyne’s Heartfelt Departure Message
In a touching farewell message via social media, De Bruyne expressed his deep connection to the city, the club, and its supporters:
“Nothing about this is easy to write, but as football players, we all know this day eventually comes. Let’s enjoy these last moments together!”
Conclusion
Kevin De Bruyne’s unexpected critique of cricket’s status in Europe and his poignant farewell to Manchester City are reminders of the unpredictable nature of sports and the deep emotions they evoke among players and fans alike.
Related: ICC Eyes Big Changes In ODI Rule That Faced Massive Criticism From Sachin Tendulkar – Report
Last Updated: April 11, 2025
