Having suffered what seemed to be a groin injury in the Champions League goalless draw with Inter at the Etihad Stadium, Kevin De Bruyne is an injury question for Manchester City’s Sunday clash with Arsenal.
Running in on goal, the Belgian was injured when Yann Sommer, the Inter No 1, challenged him during the first half; subsequently, he seemed to be clutching his groin area. De Bruyne kept following treatment until the break, then stopped.
Would the 33-year-old be available for Arsenal’s visit? Guardiola was asked. “I will have more information tomorrow i.e thursday. Not sure, the doctor advised me he wasn’t ready to play in the second half.
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Mikel Arteta’s squad is second on 10 points, two behind Guardiola’s side, having finished second to them in the past two seasons, therefore even though Arsenal is only the fifth match of their championship defense City hosts is crucial.
While the second-half substitute Phil Foden is still to play a full 90 minutes, Rodri started the season against Inter. Kyle Walker did not feature against the Italian champions, and although Ilkay Gündogan was a substitute, his sole start was Saturday’s 2-1 triumph over Brentford.
With Nathan Ake ill, Guardiola was asked if meeting Arsenal so early in the season would catch them should his side be undercooked.
“Perhaps,” he remarked. But it is what it is. I have no say over the calendar.
Still, Guardiola was happy with City’s performance against Inter given the dropped points. “We performed rather brilliantly,” he added. “I enjoy my team; we are a great bunch. Inter are the masters of defense and in transition they are also really formidable.
“The performance we gave makes me really happy. These guys will be better as the season is only starting.
Although his present terms expire next June, Guardiola is still deciding whether he should sign a new contract. If he would be interested in coaching an Italian squad, they inquired. ” Italy is fantastic but I love it here, because English football is so good,” the City manager stated. “You can coach because the club is outstanding and without too much pressure.”
