Kevin De Bruyne, a midfielder for Manchester City, has alluded to his impending comeback from a protracted injury absence.
Since rupturing his hamstring 23 minutes into City’s 3-0 victory over Burnley in their Premier League season opener in August, De Bruyne, 32, has not participated in any games. After eighteen games, the Belgian was benched on Saturday, December 30, when City defeated Sheffield United 2-0 at home.
Pep Guardiola, the manager of City, told BBC Sport, “It seems like the fans want him back after the standing ovation he received while warming up.” “It was a long injury for all of us, but we’re happy he’s back.”
According to Sky Sports via SI, the manager stated in a different interview that De Bruyne might make a comeback for Newcastle United on January 13:
“It’s been a while since we last saw him. The past week or so, he has improved. He came for the awards, the photo, the awareness of when to warm up, and the support and anticipation of the crowd for his return. Perhaps he will be prepared in Newcastle.”
De Bruyne has since tweeted that he’s getting back into the starting lineup:
“See you soon”
With 358 games played in all competitions, De Bruyne has 96 goals and 153 assists, making him the jewel in the crown of City’s all-star squad. His 10 goals and 31 assists across competitions last season were crucial to their record continental treble.
What lies ahead for Manchester City under Kevin De Bruyne?
On Sunday, December 7, Manchester City will play their next game as they begin their FA Cup title defense at home against Huddersfield Town. The Cityzens became the first English club to win the continental treble after defeating Manchester United 2-1 in the championship game of the previous season.
Pep Guardiola’s team travels to Newcastle on January 13 for their only other guaranteed match of the month, where Kevin De Bruyne is anticipated to make his eagerly awaited comeback from injury.
City’s FA Cup fourth-round matchup with Huddersfield is scheduled for later this month, if they win this weekend.