Man City rocked by double injury blow on eve of Newcastle United clash - huge boost
Pep Guardiola has confirmed Kevin De Bruyne will miss Manchester City’s trip to Newcastle United this weekend.
The Belgian was substituted at half-time during the champion’s 0-0 draw with Inter Milan last week. While Guardiola insisted his withdrawal would have happened regardless, De Bruyne missed recent games against Arsenal and Watford.
He will now be sidelined when Newcastle welcome City to St James’ Park tomorrow. Guardiola told reporters: “No (whether De Bruyne is available). Maybe (he will be back before the international break.”
That news will be celebrated across Tyneside given De Bruyne’s heroics at St James’ Park in recent years. The 33-year-old returned from a four-month lay-off earlier this year to bag a goal and assist at Newcastle in a stunning 20-minute cameo.
In 2019, De Bruyne was on point again with a stunning 25-yard volley against Steve Bruce’s side. But the Magpies will not face the Man City talisman when they travel to the North East on Saturday.
Guardiola also revealed that Rodri, his other midfield maestro, will miss the rest of the season. The Ballon d’Or contender suffered an ACL injury in the 2-2 draw with Arsenal last weekend.
“Unfortunately, Rodri got the worst outcome,” he added. “He got surgery this morning, ACL and some meniscus. This season is over for Rodri. Next season, he will be here.”
Just days earlier, the midfielder had bemoaned the hectic fixture schedule for modern-day players - suggesting they may strike in future. Losing Rodri and De Bruyne is a huge blow for City but also gives Howe's side a much-needed boost ahead of the clash.
Newcastle are yet to win a midfield battle this season, with last weekend's defeat at Fulham a timely reality check given recent performance levels. Sandro Tonali has not started a Premier League game since returning from his 10-month ban and could provide solutions in the egine room.