Kevin De Bruyne’s controversial incident overshadowed him playing a leading role in the Premier League cracker on Wednesday with a goal and an assist. The Belgian from Manchester City also reacted to the hostile reception of the Arsenal fans, who have led the association to an investigation with their behavior.
De Bruyne was substituted in the final phase. The Belgian international stepped on the other side of the field and was thrown at him on the way back to the bench. In addition to the undoubtedly unflattering words, bottles and cups were thrown at him from the stands.
The controversy
De Bruyne himself did not go unpunished and provoked the supporters of The Gunners on their way to the dugout. The Belgian did not seem to be weighed down by the warm reception. He had a laugh and also checked one of the vials thrown at his feet. His response on Instagram showed he wasn’t taking it too seriously. The Belgian midfielder jokingly asked: “Anyone else?”
The English federation saw less fun in it. An investigation has been ordered into the behavior of the Arsenal fans. The London club will also see if sanctions are handed out. “This is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated,” they told the London Evening Standard.
Funnily, prior to the fixture, this was the words of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, “Tomorrow, we’ll have 15 players! They have been giving us encouragement and support, kicking every ball about, and generally getting into it. Enjoy this lovely night after such a memorable day.
“We are creating a great environment at the Emirates. Being a part of it makes it much more special since the players are talking about it.”
De Bruyne provided food for discussion on more fronts on Wednesday. In addition to his goal and assist, there was a sideline mishap with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, who tagged the ball away before the Belgian could get it for a throw-in. It led to some pushing and pulling.
This also ultimately did not lead to lasting feelings of revenge for the Red Devil. Afterwards, the two found each other and the peace was signed with a hug. Arteta and De Bruyne know each other from their time together at Manchester City.
