Man City need to adapt to life without Kevin De Bruyne

Man City could be without Kevin De Bruyne for their crucial Premier League match against Arsenal in round 5 due to injury.

Last season, the 33-year-old midfielder was sidelined with a hamstring injury until early 2024. Entering the 2024-2025 season, when he is at his best, Kevin De Bruyne has played in almost every match for Manchester City.

That includes the Champions League match against Inter Milan in midweek. However, the Belgian midfielder had to leave the field at half-time after feeling uncomfortable in the first half. The 33-year-old did not return to the field after the break and was replaced by Ilkay Gundogan.

“I don’t know, I haven’t spoken to the doctors yet. I’ll have more information later. We’ll assess De Bruyne tomorrow (Thursday),” Pep Guardiola said at a press conference when asked about De Bruyne’s injury.

With his early exit, it’s clear that De Bruyne’s injury is Man City’s biggest concern ahead of the Arsenal game. In the past, The Citizens have managed well without their key midfielder. But this time, it’s of particular significance, given the interest from the Saudi Pro League and De Bruyne’s expiring contract.

The 33-year-old’s current deal expires next summer and he has previously spoken about the possibility of pursuing a new challenge. The Saudi Pro League has been mentioned as a potential option.

“At my age, you have to be open-minded. You’re talking about huge amounts of money at what could be the end of my career. Sometimes you have to think about it. If I played in Saudi Arabia for two years, I could earn an incredible amount of money,” De Bruyne told Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws.

In simple terms, it’s only a matter of time before De Bruyne leaves the Etihad. And the game against Arsenal will show what Man City will look like without their playmaker.

De Bruyne’s impact after injury last season, with four goals and 10 assists, suggests he’s still at the top of his game. However, that hasn’t always been the case.

City’s recent transfer plans and squad depth have helped them build a good foundation for the future. Gundogan, Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Matheus Nunes, Bernardo Silva, Mateo Kovacic and Oscar Bobb can all play the creative role.

In De Bruyne’s recent absence, Guardiola often deployed Foden or Julian Alvarez, who has now moved to Atletico Madrid, in his place. Foden was named PFA Player of the Year for his impressive performances throughout the season.

Foden has matured over time at the Etihad. However, in each period, with seniors such as De Bruyne, Sergio Aguero, David Silva and Vincent Kompany, Foden has never been able to become the number 1 star at the Etihad. Therefore, in some ways, De Bruyne’s departure will open a new page for Foden.