Kevin De Bruyne could be in contention to play against Liverpool on Thursday night, Pep Guardiola has confirmed.
De Bruyne returned to action at the beginning of December after a six-week absence with a knee injury but missed the win at Southampton because of a muscle problem.
Guardiola confirmed his condition is improving and says he will be checked by the Club’s medical staff tomorrow morning before a decision is made on his involvement.
“He trained today,” Guardiola said. “But tomorrow we need another check in the morning, but he is much better.”
Jurgen Klopp’s side arrive at the Etihad seven points ahead of City after a difficult festive period.
Three defeats in our last five matches have handed Liverpool the initiative, making Thursday’s match a crucial encounter in this season’s title race.
But Guardiola is taking a positive outlook, describing the game as a “big opportunity” to reduce Liverpool’s advantage.
“Our reality is clear,” Guardiola said. “We are seven points down. It is the second round of games and I have a feeling there is a big opportunity for us to reduce the gap.
“People are asking what we will do if we lose but we are going to try to win the game, be there and have a chance to fight for the Premier League.”
Meanwhile, with the January transfer window now officially open, Guardiola once again reiterated his belief that City will not do any business this month. mancity.com
