Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola recently provided an update on Kevin De Bruyne’s ongoing injury issues. The Belgian midfielder has been absent for over a month following a hamstring injury he sustained in mid-September, which has hindered his return to the pitch. Guardiola admitted that De Bruyne “does not feel well” and signaled that his recovery may not be quick. This injury has been a recurring problem for the 33-year-old, affecting his form and availability since he had to be substituted during the 2023 Champions League final due to the same issue.
The current setback took place during a European match against Inter Milan, where De Bruyne overstretched to reach a ball, aggravating his hamstring once again. Guardiola, while expressing some concern, clarified that the injury itself was not severe but reiterated that De Bruyne’s age now demands careful management of his recovery. Guardiola explained to the media that the Belgian’s age, combined with his physical demands as a top-level midfielder, makes it essential for him to be fully fit before returning to action. “He’s not 22 anymore—he has to be completely fit to bring out his best,” Guardiola explained, acknowledging that De Bruyne’s extraordinary talent can only be realized if he is fully comfortable and healthy.
This latest injury follows a series of setbacks De Bruyne has endured with his hamstrings. Last season, he tore his hamstring in the opening game of the 2023/24 campaign, where medical examinations revealed that his muscle was as fragile as “a wet paper towel.” He eventually underwent surgery and made a commendable return later in the season. Despite playing in fewer than half of Manchester City’s Premier League matches, De Bruyne’s impact remained profound, as he recorded 10 assists in the league, a tally bested by only two other players in the competition.
Meanwhile, with De Bruyne sidelined, City has turned to Phil Foden to help fill the creative void. Although Foden started the season gradually after a demanding summer with the England national team at Euro 2024, Guardiola has been cautious with his integration into the new campaign. The manager noted a positive development in Foden’s recent performances, describing him as mentally and physically “in the right frame of mind” and showing visible improvement on the pitch.
Guardiola also emphasized that De Bruyne’s recovery will not be rushed, particularly with critical Champions League matches ahead, including an important fixture against Sparta Prague. The coaching team remains focused on ensuring that De Bruyne reaches full fitness before returning, understanding that pushing him too soon could exacerbate the injury. For now, De Bruyne is undergoing training and making incremental improvements, but he has communicated that he still does not feel fully fit. In response, Guardiola remains steadfast in prioritizing De Bruyne’s well-being, ensuring he has ample time to achieve a complete recovery before reintegrating into Manchester City’s lineup.