Last season, the 33-year-old midfielder was sidelined with a hamstring injury until early 2024. Entering the 2024-2025 season, when he is in the best shape, Kevin De Bruyne will almost play in every match for Manchester City.
That included the Champions League clash with Inter Milan in midweek. However, the Belgian midfielder was forced off at half-time after feeling unwell in the first half. The 33-year-old did not return after the break and was replaced by Ilkay Gundogan.
"I don't know, I haven't spoken to the doctors yet. I'll have more information later. We'll assess De Bruyne's situation tomorrow (Thursday)" - Pep Guardiola said in a press conference when asked about De Bruyne's injury.
With his early exit, De Bruyne’s injury is clearly City’s biggest concern ahead of the Arsenal game. The Citizens have coped well without their key midfielder in the past, but this time it’s of particular significance, given the interest from the Saudi Pro League and De Bruyne’s expiring contract.
The 33-year-old's current contract expires next summer and he has previously spoken about the possibility of pursuing a new challenge, with the Saudi Pro League mentioned as a potential option.
"At my age, you have to be open to everything. You are talking about huge amounts of money at what could be the end of my career. Sometimes you have to think about it. If I played in Saudi Arabia for two years, I could earn an incredible amount of money," De Bruyne told Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws.
Simply put, De Bruyne's departure from the Etihad is only a matter of time. And the match against Arsenal will show what Man City will look like without their maestro.
De Bruyne's impact after injury last season, with four goals and 10 assists, suggests he is still at his peak. However, this has not always been the case.
Recent transfer activity and squad depth have helped City build a strong foundation for the future. Gundogan, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Matheus Nunes, Bernardo Silva, Mateo Kovacic and Oscar Bobb can all play creative roles.
In De Bruyne's most recent absence, Guardiola has often deployed Foden or Julian Alvarez, who has now moved to Atletico Madrid, in his place. Foden was notably named PFA Player of the Year for his impressive performances throughout the season.
Foden has matured over time at the Etihad. However, in each period, with seniors like De Bruyne, Sergio Aguero, David Silva and Vincent Kompany, Foden has never been able to become the number 1 star at the Etihad. Therefore, in some aspects, De Bruyne's departure will open a new page for Foden.
