Kevin De Bruyne did not play for Manchester City at Brentford because he “didn’t feel comfortable”, manager Pep Guardiola has said – but the midfielder will travel with the squad for their Premier League match at Bournemouth on Saturday.
Playmaker De Bruyne returned from a five-month lay-off with a hamstring injury by directly contributing to nine goals in eight matches in all competitions, only to be surprisingly left out and remain an unused substitute in City’s hard-earned 1-0 win against the Bees on Monday.
“We took a good decision not to take a risk,” said Guardiola, acknowledging that “people will ask why he didn’t play.”
“He didn’t feel comfortable. I don’t know if he’s 100%. The day after the game, he trained. We will assess and decide but I am pretty sure he will travel.”
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Guardiola described 32-year-old De Bruyne’s condition as “good”, adding: “He’s not injured.”
In a documentary released by City this week, De Bruyne said his surgeon had likened his right hamstring to a “wet paper towel” before the operation which had kept him out since the opening game of the campaign.
PEP 💬 (On Grealish and Gvardiol’s fitness) This week no but they are closer. pic.twitter.com/fQqakHQtUc
— Manchester City (@ManCity) February 23, 2024
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City are four points behind leaders Liverpool with a game in hand ahead of their trip to the Cherries, who are 13th and without a league win in six matches.
Guardiola said he is among those who admire the bold style of play Bournemouth have looked increasingly effective with during manager Andoni Iraola’s first season in charge.
The City boss praised his fellow Spaniard for “an incredible job”, singling out Bournemouth’s 3-0 win at Manchester United and their “direct” and “aggressive” approach.
Iraola is likely to face one of his toughest challenges of the season against opponents who are unbeaten in 16 matches in all competitions.
Midfielder Jack Grealish and defender Josko Gvardiol are “closer” to comebacks for the Cityzens, Guardiola said.
Guardiola would not be drawn on whether either player could return against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium on March 3, adding: “If I know, I will tell you.”
