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Pep Guardiola sets Kevin De Bruyne return date as assist king continues recovery from hamstring surgery.
Pep Guardiola has shared an update on Kevin De Bruyne’s return date as the Belgian star works towards recovery from hamstring surgery. De Bruyne has been sidelined since mid-August, forced off in the 23rd minute of Manchester City’s Premier League season opener against Burnley.
In a positive development, Guardiola suggested that City fans can look forward to seeing De Bruyne back in action during the festive period. This update brings optimism to De Bruyne’s return, providing hope for his participation in upcoming matches for Manchester City.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the club’s Champions League fixture against RB Leipzig, Guardiola said: “I’d love to have him (De Bruyne) all season but he has had surgery and has to recover well. The end of December or [in the] new year will be a Happy New Year for everyone!”
The manager also provided updates on some of the other injury City stars including John Stones as he added: “We have training now but we’ll see this afternoon… I’m not optimistic about good news for some people to come back… John Stones is getting better… Not to play but maybe a few minutes for the next one.”
The defending Premier League winners have recently had a number of injury problems. The 52-year-old manager said during their match against Liverpool on Saturday that he was having trouble selecting a starting lineup since several players in his team were sick.
With 12 points from four games, the Sky Blues have already advanced to the Champions League knockout rounds. Guardiola is certain to make some new player additions before the team plays RB Leipzig on Tuesday.