Why Kevin De Bruyne is absent for Manchester City against Arsenal in the Premier League

Kevin De Bruyne is absent for Manchester City against Arsenal in their Premier League showdown at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The 33-year-old was withdrawn from action against Inter Milan on Wednesday night at the half-time interval, having appeared to sustain a groin problem during an attempt on the Italian side’s goal in UEFA Champions League action.

Replacing the club’s vice-captain with Phil Foden, who took up an attacking midfield role in the game, Pep Guardiola was unable to offer too much insight after the contest on the severity of the issue.

However, speaking during his pre-match press conference on Friday afternoon, there was a glimmer of hope from the Catalan coach that De Bruyne could offer his services in some capacity against Arsenal this weekend.

“He feels today a little bit better, but not yet,” Guardiola said when asked whether De Bruyne had returned to training alongside his Manchester City teammates. “Days off and tomorrow (Saturday) is training and we will see.”

Asked whether De Bruyne could be involved against Arsenal, Guardiola said, “He could be.”

However, following confirmation of team news from the Etihad Stadium ahead of the clash against Arsenal, Kevin De Bruyne has been left out of the Manchester City squad for the visit of their Premier League title challengers.

Speaking on the problem sustained by the Belgian with broadcasters ahead of the game, Guardiola was keen to reassure supporters awaiting an update on De Bruyne that the injury is not a “big, big one”.

This is a developing story. More to follow.