Kevin De Bruyne is expected to miss Manchester City’s crucial Premier League showdown with Arsenal, though his injury is not believed to be long-term.
De Bruyne appeared to suffer a groin injury during City’s 0-0 Champions League opener against Inter Milan at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday.
The playmaker received treatment from City’s medical staff just before half-time and did not return for the second half.
Manager Pep Guardiola stated it was too soon to determine the severity of the injury.
However, it is understood that De Bruyne is a significant doubt for Sunday’s match against Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal, according to the Mirror.
Man City are cautious about risking him, as it could prolong his absence.
The goalless draw against Inter marked De Bruyne’s fifth consecutive start for City this season, following two appearances for Belgium during the recent international break.
Ilkay Gundogan replaced De Bruyne on Wednesday and is expected to step in again against Arsenal.
Phil Foden, who returned from illness in the match against Inter, is also an option to start.
Guardiola hinted that he had already been considering substituting De Bruyne even before the injury, suggesting the knock merely accelerated his decision.
“I didn’t speak with the doctors yet. I will have more info tomorrow,” he said.
“Against a team that defended 5-3-2 and five players went to one side, they could not make contact with Rodri and you have to turn the ball quick and we needed players special for small spaces.
“Rico [Lewis], Phil and Gundo are the best in the pockets, in the small spaces.
“Phil turned and shot and Gundo was there for the two crosses.
“The way they defend, I was thinking after 35 minutes that I wanted to make this substitution.
“After the doctor said to me that Kevin was not ready to play but I was ready to make this substitution anyway.”
Kevin De Bruyne is entering the final year of his contract with Manchester City, and this season could potentially be his last at the Etihad.
Should he decide to leave next summer, the lucrative Saudi Pro League is seen as a likely destination.
Both Arsenal and City will be without their midfield talismans for their upcoming clash, a match that could have a significant impact on the early Premier League title race.
While De Bruyne’s injury is not expected to keep him out long-term, Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard faces a more extended period on the sidelines due to his injury.
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