Is Kevin De Bruyne Injured? Real Reason Why He Isn’t Playing for Manchester City vs Real Madrid

The soccer world is currently glued to their TV screens to watch the much-awaited UEFA Champions League quarterfinal Leg 1 between Real Madrid and Manchester City. While both sides are expected to produce an enthralling spectacle, the conspicuous absence of Kevin De Bruyne has become a talking point among soccer fans, with questions looming surrounding his potential injury. 

Well, to clear the air, technically, Kevin De Bruyne has not suffered an injury. However, he has health issues, which forced Pep Guardiola to bench him against Real Madrid at the eleventh hour. Surprisingly, the 31-year-old exhibited symptoms of nausea. In fact, before the match, the former Barcelona manager even gave an update regarding the Belgian international’s health. While speaking to TNT before the match, the Spaniard revealed, “Vomits. He feels unwell.” Guardiola then revealed more details about how the midfielder’s health unexpectedly worsened. 

“I don’t know, we make a meeting and he was ready. When we arrive in the locker room starts to vomit and say he’s not ready. It’s not good news but is what it is. Another player will play, 180 minutes and everyone will play,” he added. It certainly comes as a surprise to see De Bruyne’s health deteriorate just moments before the crucial match. Therefore, expectations are on the shoulders of the likes of Phil Foden, Mateo Kovacic, and Bernardo Silva to keep the midfield intact in the Belgian’s absence. 

The whole team is also expected to set up goalscoring opportunities for Erling Haaland, which is De Bruyne’s forte. Otherwise, failing to do so might force him to come out himself.

Kevin De Bruyne can make an appearance as a substitute against Real Madrid

Kevin De Bruyne’s health status makes it unlikely that Pep Guardiola will use him even as a substitute. However, if things go south for City, then the Spaniard will have no choice but to unleash his talisman. After all, the away fixture has quite significance for the Premier League side, as it will help them host the return leg with full confidence.

Either way, it would be interesting to see if Guardiola takes the risk of subbing the latter at some point in the match. Yet, it’s clear that his absence is a plus point for the home side, as the La Liga side would be looking to capitalize on their best. Nevertheless, let’s hope things don’t go wrong for Manchester City with Kevin De Bruyne’s presence on the sidelines. Or else, they would have to suffer the wrath of Real Madrid.

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