Kevin De Bruyne is a potential injury concern for Manchester City’s crucial clash with Arsenal on Sunday, having sustained what seemed to be a groin injury during the Champions League stalemate against Inter at the Etihad Stadium. The Belgian midfielder appeared to be injured while sprinting towards goal and being challenged by Inter’s goalkeeper, Yann Sommer, in the first half. De Bruyne seemed to clutch his groin area after the incident. Following medical treatment, he continued until halftime but was subsequently substituted.
Pep Guardiola was questioned about the 33-year-old’s availability for Arsenal’s visit. “I’m not sure, I’ll have more information tomorrow [Thursday]. The doctor informed me that he was not fit to play [in the second half],” Guardiola said. Despite being just the fifth match of their title defense, Manchester City’s hosting of Arsenal is significant, as Mikel Arteta’s team is currently second with 10 points, just two points behind Guardiola’s side, having finished second to them in the past two seasons.
Rodri made his first start of the season against Inter, while Phil Foden, who came on as a substitute in the second half, is yet to complete a full 90 minutes. Kyle Walker did not feature against the Italian champions, and although Ilkay Gündogan was a substitute, he and Walker’s only start was the 2-1 victory over Brentford on Saturday. With Nathan Aké injured, Guardiola was asked if facing Arsenal so early in the season might catch his side off guard. “Perhaps,” he said. “But that’s how it is. I don’t control the schedule.”
Guardiola was, however, satisfied with City’s performance against Inter despite the dropped points. “We played very well,” he said. “I love my team – we are a fantastic team. Inter are masters of defending, and in transition, they are really strong as well. I’m really pleased with the performance we put in. It’s the beginning of the season, so these players will only get better.” Guardiola has yet to decide whether he will sign a new contract, with his current terms expiring next June. When asked if coaching an Italian team would interest him, the City manager replied, “Italy is fantastic, but I love it here because English football is so good. You can coach without too much pressure, and the club is great.”
