Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola revealed after the game against Brentford on tuesday that Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne, an unused substitute, was not fit enough due to aches in his hamstring.
The Spanish Manager said, “De Bruyne has “niggles” in his hamstring but it’s all good, he’s fine.
“I just didn’t want to take any risk with him… he’s ok, he just told the doctors he was not feeling 100% and we did not want to risk anything”, according to Fabrizio Romano on X.
Debruyne’s impressive stats
De Bruyne, who just returned to action in January, from a layoff due to hamstring surgery, has been impressive for the club, scoring two goals and providing seven assists, since his return.
The game, which was played at the Etihad Stadium, ended in a 1-0 victory in favour of the Citizens, thanks to a well composed finish from Norwegian striker Erling Halaand in the 71st minute.
Haaland, who had not scored in his last two games for City, faced additional frustration in the first half despite his best attempts. Ivan Toney and Manuel Akanji both came close with strikes from range, with the Man City defender seeing his shot pushed over.
City, having won their game in hand, move up a point above Arsenal, while continuing to put pressure on Liverpool who will be playing at home against Luton Town on Wednesday night.
The Champions are set to face a tough run of fixtures in March, including games against current league leaders Liverpool, Arsenal and Manchester United.
Meanwhile, Manchester City already completed the signing of talented Girona winger Sàvio.
