Manchester City could receive a huge boost as Kevin De Bruyne is reportedly close to returning from injury just in time for the Premier League’s resumption after the international break. The midfield maestro has missed City’s last five matches across all competitions, leaving a noticeable gap in Pep Guardiola’s side. However, his return could be imminent as the champions gear up for a busy schedule ahead, including their upcoming trip to face Wolves at Molineux.
Kevin De Bruyne Nearing Full Fitness
De Bruyne’s absence has been felt in recent weeks, with the Belgian star sitting out crucial Premier League and Champions League fixtures due to injury. His decision to opt out of Belgium’s national team duties for the coming months signals his intention to focus on getting back to full fitness for Manchester City, as they prepare for key games ahead of the Club World Cup next summer.
While his exact return date remains uncertain, there is optimism that De Bruyne could feature against Wolves. This would be a massive boost for Guardiola’s side, especially as they aim to maintain their dominance in the league and push further in the Champions League. De Bruyne’s creativity, vision, and leadership on the pitch have made him one of City’s most vital players, and having him back could reinvigorate their attacking play.
Ake is Also Expected to Return
In addition to De Bruyne, there’s good news regarding Nathan Ake, who has been out of action since suffering a hamstring injury while on international duty with the Netherlands in September. Guardiola confirmed before the latest international break that Ake was expected to be back in the squad afterwards, and it seems the defender could be available for the trip to Wolves.
Ake’s versatility and defensive stability have been key components of Guardiola’s tactical plans. Whether deployed as a centre-back or left-back, his return could shore up a defence that has been without key personnel in recent weeks.
Rodri and Oscar Bobb Remain Sidelined
Despite the positive news surrounding De Bruyne and Ake, City will still be without key players Rodri and youngster Oscar Bobb, both of whom are dealing with long-term injuries. Rodri, in particular, is a significant loss, as the Spanish midfielder has been one of City’s standout performers in recent seasons, providing a calming influence in the middle of the park. His absence has left Guardiola with a few tactical headaches, but the depth of City’s squad should help mitigate the impact.
Wolves Missing Key Players
Wolves manager Gary O’Neil faces an injury crisis of his own ahead of the clash with City. Sasa Kalajdzic, Yerson Mosquera, Boubacar Traore, and Enso Gonzalez are all expected to miss out due to injuries, limiting O’Neil’s options in key positions. To make matters worse, there are fears that Hwang Hee-chan could be sidelined after picking up a knock while representing South Korea during the international break. The attacker has been a key figure for Wolves, and his absence would leave a significant gap in their attacking lineup.
Possible Line-Ups
With both sides dealing with injury concerns, here are the predicted line-ups for Saturday’s match at Molineux:
Wolves XI:
Johnstone; Semedo, Dawson, Gomes, Ait-Nouri; Andre; Guedes, Lemina, Gomes, Cunha; Strand Larsen
Manchester City XI:
Ederson; Walker, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol; Lewis, Kovacic; Silva, Foden, Doku; Haaland
The Road Ahead for City
As Manchester City prepares to enter a busy stretch of the season, getting key players like De Bruyne and Ake back to full fitness will be crucial for their success. While Rodri’s absence is a blow, City has the depth and quality to cope with their injuries and keep pushing for titles on multiple fronts.
De Bruyne’s return couldn’t come at a better time for Guardiola, whose side will look to bounce back strong after the international break and extend their strong start to the Premier League campaign. For Wolves, a weakened squad will face a tough test against the reigning champions, especially if City’s star playmaker is ready to return and pull the strings once again.
All eyes will be on Molineux this weekend as the Premier League action resumes, and City could be set to welcome back their talisman just when they need him the most.