Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has provided a positive update on Kevin De Bruyne’s fitness in the run-up to their Premier League clash against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium.
De Bruyne started the match in the 0-0 draw in the Champions League against Inter Milan, but he had to be substituted at halftime due to what looked like a groin injury when he was running towards the opponents’ goal.
There were fears initially, especially because of his six-month injury last season because of a torn hamstring.
Guardiola stated that club doctors informed him that De Bruyne should not continue and required further evaluation.
Still, there are some concerns, but Guardiola has given a signal that De Bruyne’s state is getting better.
In a previous report from Sportsbuddy, Guardiola heaped praise on Mikel Arteta ahead of their crunch Premier League clash.
BE WISE MIKEL! Pep Guardiola kick-starts mind games on Arteta ahead of crunch Premier League clash
Kevin De Bruyne Possible Involvement Against Arsenal
At the press conference on Friday, Guardiola said about the player: “Kevin feels a little better, but not yet (back in training). Today [he] is off, and tomorrow is training, and we will see.”
"We will see, he could play" 🚨
Pep Guardiola says Kevin De Bruyne will be assessed ahead of Sunday's match against Arsenal 🔵 pic.twitter.com/lmIMCHF3Yi
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) September 20, 2024
While De Bruyne was rested on Friday, Guardiola suggested that he “could be involved” on Sunday, depending on further evaluations.
Even though possible replacements like Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva, or Ilkay Gundogan were available, De Bruyne’s participation would give a big boost to the City side.
De Bruyne’s Impact Against Arsenal
De Bruyne has a stellar record against Arsenal, having scored eight goals in 21 matches, with five assists to his name.
Manchester City have not lost any of the Premier League games this season, but they face a tough test to Mikel Arteta’s men, who have challenged them for the title in the last two seasons.