Kevin De Bruyne is an injury doubt for Manchester City’s showdown with Arsenal on Sunday after suffering what appeared to be a groin injury in the Champions League goalless draw with Inter at the Etihad Stadium.
The Belgian was hurt when running in on goal and being challenged by Yann Sommer, the Inter No 1, during the first half, afterwards seeming to clutch his groin area. Following treatment De Bruyne continued until the break but was then taken off.
Guardiola was asked if the 33-year-old will be available for Arsenal’s visit. “I don’t know, I will have more info tomorrow [Thursday]. The doctor said to me he was not ready to play [in the second half].”
Despite being only the fifth match of their championship defence City’s hosting of Arsenal is pivotal as Mikel Arteta’s team are second on 10 points, two behind Guardiola’s side, having finished second to them in the past two seasons.
Rodri made a first start of the season versus Inter, while the second-half substitute Phil Foden is yet to play a full 90 minutes. Kyle Walker did not feature against the Italian champions, and though Ilkay Gündogan was a replacement, he and Walker’s only start was Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Brentford.
With Nathan Aké injured, Guardiola was asked if facing Arsenal so early in the season may catch them when his side might be undercooked.
“Maybe,” he said. “But it is what is. I don’t control the schedule.”
Guardiola was, though, content with City’s display against Inter despite the dropped points. “We played so good,” he said. “I love my team – we are a fantastic team. Inter are the masters of defending and in transition they are really strong as well.
“I’m really pleased with the performance we did. It is the beginning of the season so these players will be better.”
Guardiola is yet to decide if he will sign a new contract, his current terms expiring next June. He was asked if coaching an Italian team would interest him. “Italy is fantastic but I love it here, because English football is so good,” said the City manager. “You can coach without having too much pressure and because the club is great.”
