Kevin De Bruyne reveals unusual Man City pre-match routine that helps him calm his nerves

Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne has revealed his unusual pre-match routine which helps him calm his nerves ahead of big games.

De Bruyne, 32, is widely viewed as one of the greatest players of his generation and has played a key role in City's success under Pep Guardiola.

He made 49 appearances in all competitions last season, scoring 10 goals and providing 28 assists, as City claimed the Treble.

The Belgian has struggled with injuries this season but is now back to full fitness and hoping to help his side defend their Champions League, Premier League and FA Cup trophies in the final months of the campaign.

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Despite his huge experience, De Bruyne has revealed he still gets pre-match nerves and has found a unique way of coping in the dressing room.

Speaking on Netflix's new Manchester City documentary 'Together: Treble Winners', which documents last season's success at the Etihad, De Bruyne revealed he plays the game Candy Crush on his phone to calm his nerves.

You can watch the documentary with a 30-day free trial of Sky and Netflix.

"I just play games, talk to people. I can't keep still," De Bruyne said.

His teammate Bernardo Silva added: "He's always like this, chilling – watching his phone."

De Bruyne replied: 'Everybody is different. The more relaxed I am, the better I feel.

Kevin De Bruyne has an usual way of calming his nerves (Image: Getty)

"There's not really a lot I need to do except get ready, get changed and that's it."

A clip from the documentary, shared by City on their club website, then shows De Bruyne sat playing Candy Crush on his phone in the dressing room.

City supporters will be hoping the technique works when Guardiola's side return to action against Aston Villa at the Etihad on Wednesday.

City are currently third in the Premier League, three points behind leaders Liverpool and two behind Arsenal, who they draw 0-0 with on Sunday afternoon.

Topics: Manchester City, Kevin De Bruyne, Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, Football

Rory O'Callaghan

Rory O'Callaghan is Editorial Lead at SPORTbible. He has previously worked for Sky Sports News, MailOnline and Reach covering football, cricket, boxing and MMA. Tested daily as a Liverpool fan in a Manchester office.

@rory_ocallaghan