Fingers are crossed as the 2023/24 Premier League’s final matchday is here. All 20 teams are set to battle one last time to determine the final standings in the table. Among the most anticipated clashes is Manchester City vs West Ham United as the win for Pep Guardiola and Co. will seal their fourth consecutive title. But before the match, the question looms over the presence of Cityzens’ star Kevin De Bruyne.
With the official lineups announced, there is finally a sigh of relief for the Cityzens. The Belgian international is in the starting XI for the final clash. Earlier, there was no update regarding the gravity of the injury he sustained during the Cityzens’ 0-2 win against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday. The midfielder was taken off the pitch after the hour mark after suffering a knock in his ankle. Days ago, Pep Guardiola was asked to give an update regarding KDB’s status.
However, the Spanish tactician didn’t give an exact reply, insisting that De Bruyne will be assessed before he is unleashed against West Ham. Since then, concerns have still been raised over the playmaker’s fitness. However, fans can expect a masterclass performance from the former Wolfsburg man against the London side. Perhaps giving a start and then subbing him off is a decision that rests in Guardiola’s hands. Giving De Bruyne a rest, on the other hand, has a silver lining.
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A rest would keep him fit for this weekend’s FA Cup final against arch-rivals Manchester United. Nevertheless, he is starting the match in what can be a title winner for City. Meanwhile, are there any other injury concerns for Guardiola and Co?
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While Kevin De Bruyne starts, which other stars are bound to miss Manchester City vs West Ham United?
Unfortunately, Ederson is on the sidelines. The Brazilian goalkeeper was also one of the victims of Tottenham Hotspur. The City star suffered a fractured eye socket after a nasty collision with Cristian Romero, prompting Pep Guardiola to substitute him off the field at the same time as De Bruyne.
Not only will he miss the West Ham clash, but Ederson is also expected to remain sidelined for the Manchester derby in the FA Cup final. In his absence, Stefan Ortega is set to step in between the sticks. The confirmed absence of Ederson certainly leave City in a vulnerable position.
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But can they defy all the odds to etch their names in the history books? We would like to hear your thoughts on the same.