The prominent midfielder found himself on the bench but did not participate in Manchester City’s close 1-0 victory against Brentford in the Premier League on Tuesday. Erling Haaland’s 71st-minute goal ultimately separated the two teams. Following the match, Guardiola clarified that De Bruyne was available but remained unused due to a minor hamstring issue. As a precautionary step, the decision to rest De Bruyne was made to ensure his well-being.

Speaking at his post-match press conference, the Cityzens boss said: “He has niggles in his hamstring area and I didn’t want to take any гιꜱk with him. He’s OK, he’s OK, it was more about prevention. He said he didn’t feel comfortable and the doctors said not to take a гιꜱk.”

The 32-year-old was absent for the initial part of the season due to a hamstring ιnjᴜry sustained in Manchester City’s Premier League debut against Burnley in August. He made his comeback in the new year during an FA Cup third-round match against Huddersfield. Following his recovery, the Belgian midfielder has contributed with four assists in the five Premier League matches he has participated in.

Securing a victory against The Bees, the defending champions narrowed the difference to the current leaders, Liverpool, to just one point in the league standings. City’s upcoming match against Bournemouth on Saturday presents an opportunity to reclaim the top spot, particularly with Liverpool engaged in Carabao Cup final duties. If City secures a win in their next fixture, they will once again lead the league standings.