It happened in 2021, and it has happened again for Manchester City in 2023.
Apparently, the game has a certain kind of jinx when it comes to UEFA Champions League finals, as star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne was forced to leave the game due to similar reasons in both title matches.
In 2021, De Bruyne left the pitch after 60 minutes after having his cheekbone injured by one of Chelsea's players. This time, De Bruyne seemed to have a prior injury, as no one came close to him while he tried to hit the ball and ended up on the ground.
The Belgian footballer tried to carry on playing but coach Pep Guardiola had to sub him off to prevent further damage. Phil Foden took his spot on the pitch.
An arm around the shoulder for Kevin De Bruyne pic.twitter.com/hh0yQVmXBt
— GOAL (@goal) June 10, 2023
Getting injured in a final has to be one of the worst experiences in Football. Can't even imagine how De Bruyne feels now that it's happened twice
— Janty (@CFC_Janty) June 10, 2023
2021: Kevin De Bruyne goes off injured in the Champions League final
— B/R Football (@brfootball) June 10, 2023
2023: Kevin De Bruyne goes off injured in the Champions League final
Football isn't fair pic.twitter.com/URBhiwtBRA