Is Kevin De Bruyne Injured? Pep Guardiola Drops Verdict On Manchester City’s Injury Problems

Manchester City has to be running on fumes as they take on Chelsea in the semifinals of the FA Cup. The team is coming off a heartbreaking loss on the penalties against Real Madrid in the Champions League quarterfinals. Pep Guardiola‘s side is already suffering from injuries, and it seems like the side was hit with another blow before the game. However, there looks to be a positive ray of light with Kevin De Bruyne expected to return to the team for the game.

The Manchester City boss updated his team and Kevin De Bruyne at his latest press conference. De Bruyne was subbed off against Real Madrid before the extra time, as the player felt issues with his hamstring. Guardiola stated, “Kevin [De Bruyne] felt his hamstring, so tired. After what happened, that is normal.” However, the Spaniard added the player is feeling well and might be back in action against Chelsea.

Kevin De Bruyne’s injury has been a recurring issue for Pep Guardiola’s side. The midfielder spent most of the season on the sidelines after rupturing his hamstring in the season opener. Despite a surgery that ruled him out for six months, the Belgian seems far from his best, with fitness playing a crucial role in his current form.

Is Kevin De Bruyne turning out to be a glass cannon?

While this sounds like a massive dig at the Belgian, it is far from the case. Kevin De Bruyne is Manchester City’s best player by a margin. Phil Foden and Julian Alvarez have stepped up to the challenge in his absence. However, the duo is still years away from creating a similar impact. Despite being in his early 30s, De Bruyne struggles with his fitness. While a lot of this can be blamed on the Belgian’s recent injuries, it doesn’t serve as an excuse when the player had over six months to recover.

Following his return in January, the player has made 18 appearances for the team across all competitions while spending six games on the sidelines. While his numbers haven’t dwindled, his absence has taken a toll on the team. Manchester City seems to lack that edge in their attack in Kevin De Bruyne’s absence. The player has picked from right where he left with 19 goal contributions in 18 games. De Bruyne has also pulled his team out of a fix multiple times this season, and it would be a mistake to count him out this early.

What are your thoughts on Kevin De Bruyne’s importance to Manchester City? Let us know in the comments below.