Pep Guardiola has provided an update on Kevin De Bruyne’s return, revealing that the Manchester City star is expected to be back after the October international break.
Guardiola confirms De Bruyne set to return after October international break
De Bruyne has been sidelined with an injury sustained during City’s clash with Inter Milan on September 18, which has kept him out of the last three matches.
The Belgian midfielder was absent from the squad that traveled to Slovakia for the upcoming Champions League fixture against Slovan Bratislava, and he will also miss this weekend’s Premier League game against Fulham.
Guardiola, speaking at a pre-match press conference, expressed his optimism about De Bruyne’s recovery, saying, “Hopefully after the international break, Kevin will be back.”
De Bruyne’s absence has been felt, with Manchester City facing several key matches without their creative talisman.
The 33-year-old’s leadership and playmaking abilities have been sorely missed, and his return could prove crucial as the team navigates a busy schedule.
In the meantime, Guardiola has had to shuffle his lineup, with players like Phil Foden likely to fill De Bruyne’s attacking role.
Ilkay Gundogan, who has played in a similar position, struggled to make an impact in City’s last outing, increasing the pressure for Foden to step up.
City will be hoping to pick up their first Champions League win of the season in Slovakia, after drawing 1-1 with Inter Milan in the opening round.
Despite the opposition’s 5-1 loss to Celtic, Guardiola stressed that the Bratislava side should not be underestimated.
