Pep Guardiola is unable to provide a timeline for Kevin De Bruyne’s return, five weeks after the midfielder sustained what was initially described as a minor injury.
De Bruyne left the field with a thigh issue during the Champions League draw against Inter Milan.
Despite Guardiola downplaying the severity of the injury, De Bruyne’s anticipated return after the October international break has yet to materialize.
While the 33-year-old is back in training with Manchester City, he is not expected to feature in the upcoming match against Sparta Prague on Wednesday.
This absence marks the seventh consecutive game De Bruyne has missed this season, following a promising start to the campaign.
Guardiola remains optimistic, asserting that the injury is not a significant concern.
However, he emphasized the importance of ensuring De Bruyne is fully fit before making his return to the pitch.
“It’s not a big issue but he doesn’t feel completely fine and Kevin is not 22 years old anymore,” he said.
“He has to be fit completely for his football.
“He has to be completely comfortable or he cannot express his potential.
“He is training a little bit better.
“He said to me he still doesn’t feel good, so take your time.
“He has to be [100% ready].”
Guardiola was unable to provide any positive updates on Kyle Walker, who returned from international duty with England nursing a knee issue.
As a result, he missed the trip to Wolves on Sunday and is also expected to be sidelined for the upcoming Champions League match.
Asked if he could be out for a while, Pep Guardiola said: “I don’t know.”
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