Lifelong Manchester City fan and former boxing world champion Ricky Hatton believes that Kevin De Bruyne should win the Citizens’ player of the season award when the 2023/24 campaign comes to a close on May 19.
He noted how effective the Belgian has been since his return from a lengthy injury, noting that he is currently in ‘sensational form’ in the Premier League.
Hatton thinks that Erling Haaland will also be in consideration, but believes that he has not been as impressive as he was last year – therefore, he has gone with De Bruyne.
During his active career, Hatton was a super-lightweight world champion, having held the IBO, WBU, WBA and IBF versions of the belt at various stages of his time in the sport. He took on hall of famers such as Floyd Mayweather, Kostya Tszyu and Manny Pacquiao to varying degrees of success.
Who does Ricky Hatton think is the player of the season at Manchester City for 2023/24?
Speaking in an interview with Lord Ping, Hatton said: “Kevin De Bruyne has had another great season. Erling Haaland hasn’t been as on the ball this season as he was last season, but to be honest with you, it was always going to be very difficult for him to repeat the season he had last year.
“He was scoring with practically every kick he was taking. It’s always difficult to maintain that level of performance, especially in the Premier League.
“We’re a more balanced team this season. We have quality players in every single department. Kevin De Bruyne has been my player of the season because since coming back from his injury, he has looked absolutely brilliant. He’s been in sensational form.
“City fans are pretty relaxed about winning the Premier League title – we’re getting a little bit cocky, but that shows you far we’ve come. I’m still devastated that we lost to Real Madrid in the Champions League. I thought we had a great chance of winning the lot.”