Arsenal handed title boost as Man City suffer major injury worry ahead of crucial Sunday clash
Kevin De Bruyne suffered an injury scare during Manchester City’s goalless draw with Inter Milan in the Champions League, just days before the Blues are set to face Arsenal in the Premier League.
The Belgian midfielder was seen limping off the pitch after a collision with Inter goalkeeper Yann Sommer. Despite attempting to shake off the issue, De Bruyne was unable to continue and did not return after half-time.
The Blues will now be closely monitoring De Bruyne’s condition ahead of their Sunday showdown with Arsenal, who themselves confirmed an injury blow on Wednesday with Martin Odegaard ruled out for several weeks. Scans showed the playmaker has sustained ligament damage, having picked up the issue while on international duty.
Mikel Arteta rued: “After recent scans the scans showed that he’s got some damage especially on one of the ligaments in the ankle. We’re gonna miss him. We are going to have to deal with that and that’s a great test for the team as well.”
However, Arteta says summer signing Riccardo Calafiori will be in the squad after completing training this week. Declan Rice is set to be available having returned from his red card suspension although Mikel Merino is not expected back as he nurses his shoulder injury.
In addition to De Bruyne’s injury concern, winger Savinho was also substituted at half-time during the match against Inter Milan, although no injury was suggested for the Brazilian. City are leading the Premier League table, boasting a flawless record with victories in all four of their opening matches. Arsenal, trailing by two points, are gearing up for Sunday’s clash at the Etihad.
Last season saw the two teams battling it out to a 0-0 draw in the same fixture, as City managed to catch up with Arteta’s side and clinch their fourth consecutive Premier League title.
