Manchester City’s midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is facing the possibility of being sidelined for up to four months due to a hamstring injury.
The club is currently evaluating whether the Belgium international requires surgery for the issue, as stated by manager Pep Guardiola.
During City’s 3-0 victory over Burnley on Friday, De Bruyne was forced to exit the match during the first half after reaggravating the same problem that had prematurely ended his participation in the Champions League final in June.
Looking ahead to his team’s upcoming Super Cup clash against Sevilla in Athens on Wednesday, Guardiola confirmed during a press conference, “It’s a serious injury.”
“We have to decide if he needs surgery or no surgery, but he will be out for a few months. [The decision on surgery will be taken] in the next few days. It will be three of four months [out].”
De Bruyne missed City’s preseason fixtures but made his return in the second half of the Community Shield defeat to Arsenal.
He was picked from the start against Burnley, and ahead of the game, Guardiola said that the 32-year-old “felt good.”
“We could say don’t play, but this injury could happen later,” Guardiola added. “Before I took the decision, I spoke to the doctor, the physiotherapist, and him. He said he felt good.”
Guardiola also suggested City could now step up the search for new recruits in light of De Bruyne’s enforced absence.
Sources have told ESPN that they remain interested in West Ham United’s Lucas Paquetá, although there is a difference in valuation to resolve.
“We will see,” said Guardiola when asked whether City could sign someone to replace De Bruyne.
“After what happened, we will see the possibilities. It’s a big blow, really tough for us.”