Injuries Again, Man City Threatened To Lose Kevin De Bruyne In Match Against Arsenal

Manchester City playmaker Kevin De Bruyne is in danger of being absent against Arsenal. (X/@Inter)

JAKARTA - Manchester City are in danger of losing playmaker Kevin De Bruyne during the English Premier League big match against Arsenal. De Bruyne suffered an injury that left him withdrawn when Man City were held to a 0-0 draw against Inter Milan in the Champions League match.

The high price that Man City had to pay after failing to win the first match of the Champions League at home at the Etihad Stadium, Thursday, September 19, 2024 in the morning WIB. In that match, De Bruyne was replaced by Ilkay Gundogan when he entered the second half.

There is a problem at the base of the Belgian national team player so he has to undergo treatment. However, De Bruyne is predicted to be sidelined in order to restore his condition. If he has not recovered, De Bruyne will be absent when Man City host Arsenal, Sunday, September 22, 2024 evening WIB.

Only manager Pep Guardiola declined to provide further explanation regarding his player's injury. Including the possibility of De Bruyne absent from the Premier League big match.

"I don't know (what De Bruyne's problem is). I haven't spoken to the doctor either. I might just get confirmation tomorrow," Guardiola was quoted as saying by the Mirror.

If he is injured and has to rest, this means that De Bruyne has been struggling again for the umpteenth time with his body condition problems. Last season, he had to undergo surgery due to a hamstring injury. As a result, he was only able to return to the end of the competition.

Guardiola himself highlighted Man City's draw in the first match of the Champions League. The duel is a repeat of the 2023 Champions League final. At that time, Man City won 1-0 and for the first time grabbed a wide-eared trophy. The match at Etihad became their first meeting after Istanbul, Turkey.

Man City again experienced difficulties in the match. Guardiola admits that it is not easy to beat Inter who have a very strong defense. Not only that, the defenders are also very disciplined.

"We are facing a really difficult team to deal with. Inter are masters in defense. Their transition is also very good. Not only that, they are champions in Italy and a classy team in every area," said Guardiola.

"However, I am still satisfied with our game. I like everything. Of course, I hope to win this match. But there is no problem because there are still seven more matches. We'll see what happens," said the former Barcelona coach.

After competing in European competitions, Man City immediately focused on facing Arsenal. The duel was also a fight for the throne of the Premier League standings.

Currently Man City is at the top of the standings with nine points. The defending champions of the Premier League are the only team to get the perfect points. Meanwhile, Arsenal, who are two points adrift in second place. Arsenal must win if they want to win the top position.