Arsenal legend David Seaman expects Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne to get back to his best once he returns from a serious hamstring injury.
The Belgian international could be out for up to four months, having suffered a recurrence of the problem that saw him substituted in the first half of the Champions League final back in June. However, speaking on his podcast, Seaman said that the 32-year-old should not be written off:
“I don’t think it’s the demise of De Bruyne. I still think he’s got a hell of a lot to show and the standard he’s set has just been phenomenal.”
The news about De Bruyne was a huge blow and there is no doubt that City’s Premier League title defence could be damaged by the midfielder’s absence.
Of course, there is plenty of talent in the squad, but De Bruyne is an extremely influential figure and his contributions will be sorely missed.
Guardiola may regret starting De Bruyne against Burnley
Considering that the Belgian had not featured in pre-season, and had only played 25 minutes in the Community Shield, it was a surprise to see him in the starting lineup at Turf Moor.
Throwing De Bruyne straight back into the intensity of a competitive Premier League game without much preparation didn’t seem like the brightest of ideas, and in hindsight, manager Pep Guardiola may feel that picking the midfielder was a mistake.
City are taking action in the transfer market
Although the Premier League champions’ interest in West Ham’s Lucas Paqueta preceded De Bruyne’s injury, it is certain that the setback has provided the club with additional determination to secure the Brazilian international’s services.
An opening bid of £70m was rejected by the Hammers, but it is expected that a second offer will be tabled in a matter of days.