Kevin de Bruyne became the fastest Premier League footballer to reach 100 assists as Manchester City thrashed Southampton 4-1 at St Mary’s.
Pep Guardiola’s men are stepping up their pursuit of league leaders Arsenal as they look to keep hold of their crown, and De Bruyne was in fine form as they made it eight straight wins.
The Belgian midfielder sent Guardiola’s side on their way just before half-time, setting up the opening goal for Erling Haaland. Jack Grealish doubled their advantage, before Haaland’s outstanding bicycle kick - his 30th Premier League goal - made it 3-0. The Norwegian hotshot was immediately replaced ahead of this week’s Champions League quarter-final showdown with Bayern Munich, and while Sekou Mara reduced the arrears for Southampton, Julian Alvarez’s penalty ensured the visitors had the final say.
De Bruyne continues to be the most important influence in this City side, the man with the vision who plays the final cutting pass more than any other among their collection of stars.
Astonishingly, his 100th assist ensured he not only broke Cesc Fabregas’ record but absolutely destroyed it - getting into three figures 56 matches quicker than the Spaniard.
On reaching 100 assists, De Bruyne said: "I saw it before the game. A lot of people were talking about it online - It is something you can't really miss.
“I just tried to create as much as possible. I could have had two or three more. If they score I get the assist. Of course I am proud. I am known for my creativity, there aren't many football players who have been there. Half of the side is mine and half of the side is the other. It is a proud moment but I have to go on."
On doing it faster than the ex-Arsenal and Chelsea man - briefly a teammate at Stamford Bridge during De Bruyne’s ill-fitting stint in west London - De Bruyne added: Cesc is an unbelievable footballer player. “I don't compare myself to others. I just try and do the best I can do.
"People will talk about quicker. Everything is different, you play different positions and teams. We score a lot of goals.”
On whether he will watch Arsenal on Sunday, when they face Liverpool at Anfield, De Bruyne said: "To be fair I want to see my family a little bit. They are going on holiday for Easter so I'd prefer to see my family for a little bit before they go away.
“There won't be a lot of time to watch the game."
