Pep Guardiola acknowledged De Bruyne’s hunger to return to first-team action.
Man City boss Pep Guardiola gives a hint on the potential return of Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgium international could be “ready” to play his first game in five months when Man City face Newcastle on January 13.
De Bruyne was recovering from a hamstring injury. He last featured for the Sky Blues on August 11 against Burnley at Turf Moor.
The Belgium international underwent successful surgery a week later. He made a good recovery and made his first appearance back in training during City’s trip to Saudi Arabia for the Club World Cup in December.
Guardiola acknowledged De Bruyne’s hunger to return to first-team action prior to kickoff, spoke to reporters: “I have the feeling is Kevin… He is training with a lot of energy… [He has] the desire to come back, to play what he loves – football”.
“Maybe Newcastle he will be ready,” said Guardiola. “Really good – we’ve been waiting a long time for him. He’s turning good the last week or so.
“He came for the trophies today for the picture and to be here and realise when to warm up and how the people support him and look forward to seeing him again.”
The 32-year-old is expected to miss Man City’s next match against Huddersfield Town in the FA Cup third round on January 7.
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