Pep Guardiola Confirms Serious Injury to Kevin De Bruyne, Expected to Miss Rest of the Year

The 32-year-old was substituted after just 28 minutes into the opening game of the season due to a recurring issue that had prompted his halftime substitution in June's Champions League final victory over Internazionale.

Midfielder sustained hamstring injury against Burnley

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"This is a significant setback, a substantial challenge for our team," remarked Guardiola. "We're at a crossroads of deciding whether surgical intervention is necessary or not, but it's clear that he'll be sidelined for several months. We'll make the surgery decision in the coming days. Losing him to injury is a major setback; Kevin possesses unique attributes. While he might be absent for a game or two, his prolonged absence places a significant burden on us. Nonetheless, we must look ahead.

"We have other options, each with distinct skills and abilities. It's a chance for others to step up – life provides such opportunities. I'm confident they'll seize it."

Guardiola's trusted medical advisor, Dr. Ramón Cugat, is providing guidance to the club regarding De Bruyne's condition. "Ramón reviewed the imagery," Guardiola confirmed. "He didn't perform any procedures himself. They have two or three doctors with a consensus on the necessary course of action."

Phil Foden appears to be Guardiola's initial choice to fill De Bruyne's role. "He can play in that position, but he's also comfortable outside," the manager explained. "We have alternatives – Mateo [Kovacic]. The club has given me a very talented squad, and we'll find a resolution." Rodri emphasized De Bruyne's significance: "He's undoubtedly one of the club's key players," the midfielder stated.

"We'll miss him significantly. During such times, when no one desires injuries, we'll strive to support him. I saw him recently, and he's maintaining a positive attitude; he's eager to return. Being an experienced player, he understands that he needn't rush to return – he must focus on recovery. We'll feel his absence, but rest assured, we boast a formidable squad."

City has shown interest in West Ham's Lucas Paquetà. When asked if De Bruyne's injury would lead to signing a player to cover his absence, Guardiola responded, "Time will tell."

The 18-year-old defensive midfielder Rico Lewis has signed a new five-year contract. Guardiola expressed, "It's a remarkable feat for us – having a player from the academy commit to a long-term association. He's truly impressive."

City is currently in Athens for the Uefa Super Cup final against Sevilla, aiming for their fourth trophy this year after last season's treble. "We're present here, with a strong desire to compete, challenge ourselves, and validate our capabilities," Guardiola stated.

"For anyone seeking to claim three crowns, they'll need to fight for it. We're committed to defending our previous season's accomplishments.

"For Manchester City, this trophy has been elusive, as it's reserved for those who've triumphed in the Champions League or the Europa League."

Bayern Munich has expressed interest in signing Stefan Ortega, City's second-choice goalkeeper. "Losing him would be problematic, first due to his quality," Guardiola acknowledged. "We don't want to lose him. We rely on him, but as is the case in any situation, it hinges on multiple factors. If we lose Stefan just a couple of weeks before the market closes, we'd have to secure a replacement goalkeeper, and it's currently not a simple task."

Rico Lewis Achieves His Ambitions

Rico Lewis, aged 18, has realized his long-held aspirations by securing a contract with Manchester City that extends until 2028.

Although Lewis had one year remaining on his existing contract, he has now committed to a four-year extension on improved terms. This move follows his integral role in City's triumphant 2022/23 season, where he played a pivotal part. Last year, his inclusion in the pre-season tour caught Pep Guardiola's attention, leading to his remarkable breakthrough campaign encompassing 23 appearances.

Guardiola attributed a transformative impact to Lewis's contribution during the season. The young player's ability to guide players like John Stones and Kyle Walker to shift from full-back to midfield played a defining role in City's Champions League victory.

With a sophomore senior season on the horizon, Lewis is already positioning himself for another vital role. His commitment remains strong as he continues to work diligently, striving to secure further trophies for Manchester City.

READ MORE: Young Defender Rico Lewis Commits to Man City with Extended Contract until 2028