Kevin De Bruyne to return to Chelsea? Former Blues star opens door to surprise reunion with Man City midfielder hailed as ‘one of the very best’ behind Lionel Messi & Cristiano Ronaldo

Could Kevin De Bruyne really make a sensational return to Stamford Bridge? That’s the question on everyone’s lips after a former Chelsea star publicly opened the door to a potential reunion, hailing the Belgian as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation.

In a recent press conference, the unnamed ex-Chelsea icon praised De Bruyne as “one of the very best” players of the modern era—placing him right behind global icons Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

“Kevin has always been world-class,” the former Blue said. “What he’s done at Manchester City is incredible. If there’s even the smallest chance to bring him back to Chelsea, you take it. Players like him don’t come around often.”

De Bruyne, who had a brief and underwhelming stint at Chelsea between 2012 and 2014, went on to become a superstar at Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, collecting numerous titles and becoming a key figure in their domestic dominance.

Now, with speculation around his future growing—partly due to contract questions and possible interest from abroad—a potential Chelsea homecoming, while unlikely, isn’t entirely off the table.

“He’s matured, he’s evolved, and he’s been one of the best midfielders in the world for nearly a decade,” the former Chelsea player continued. “Seeing him in blue again would be poetic.”

While no concrete move has been confirmed, the comments have reignited fans’ imaginations, especially as Chelsea look to rebuild with experienced leaders. De Bruyne’s legacy at City is secure—but could Stamford Bridge be calling for a final chapter?

For now, the ball is in De Bruyne’s court. But one thing’s clear: his greatness is no longer up for debate—he’s firmly in the conversation behind only Messi and Ronaldo.