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via Reuters

via Reuters

Yesterday’s game looked like the title decider for Manchester City. The Sky Blues overcame Tottenham, one of their strongest rivals ever, 2-0. Their final game is against West Ham on Sunday, a weaker side on paper. However, the fixture doesn’t look much easier any more. The win yesterday came at a huge cost for the Premier League champions. As per manager Pep Guardiola, there is a big chance that the superstar duo of Kevin De Bruyne and Ederson will be available against the Hammers!

In his new presser, the Spanish manager offered injury updates on De Bruyne and Ederson. Ederson collided with Spurs defender Cristian Romero. Regarding his goalkeeper, Pep confirmed that the Brazilian did not have a concussion. He explained, “He had a problem with his eye. He could not see properly so the doctor said I should change.” Fortunately for Pep, his replacement was the ‘exceptional‘ Stefan Ortega. The US star had a wonderful match and made a crucial save to deny Heung Min-Son.

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The news regarding KDB was less positive. Guardiola said, “Kevin [De Bruyne] had a kick to the ankle and couldn’t run properly.” Notably, it was the Belgian midfielder who provided the assist for Erling Haaland’s opener. This also led him to overtake Cesc Fabregas to become the second-highest assist-maker in PL history! Hence, Manchester City will definitely miss the midfielder if he is unavailable against West Ham. But the unavailability might also have a bearing on KDB’s future at the club.

Amid KDB’s injury woes, Manchester City keen on Bundesliga midfielder

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De Bruyne has had a mixed season. When he played, he was often the difference-maker for the Sky Blues. However, the problem is that he is not available enough. This season, the playmaker has played just 17 games in the league. This figure was 32 last season, and his injury issues have had a recurring theme. Moreover, he’s soon to turn 33, his physical condition won’t get much better. This is where the links to Florian Wirtz get interesting.

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Wirtz, a playmaker for Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen, has had a stunning season. The German star has scored 18 goals and provided 19 assists this campaign. Stylistically, Wirtz is very much comparable to De Bruyne. The surprise is that Manchester City is reportedly ready to make a $161 million offer for the 21-year-old. As part of the plan, it is believed that they could sell KDB to Saudi clubs. KDB is one of the highest earners at the club and his fitness issues might have worried the upper management. Perhaps this season could be the final hurrah for the Premier League great.