Man City star Kevin De Bruyne issues injury update and reveals when he could return

Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has confirmed that he hopes to be back available early in 2024 as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury.

The 32-year-old has been sidelined since August after being forced off in City's Premier League opener against Burnley at Turf Moor. He was withdrawn just 23 minutes into the season curtain-raiser and has not played since.

Though City are firmly in the title shake-up this season, his presence in midfield has been sorely missed. He is the Blues' architect-in-chief and he directly contributed (goals and assists) to 41 goals in all competitions last season, helping the club secure a famous Treble.

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For the most part, Bernardo Silva has slotted into the void that has been vacated by De Bruyne, dominating proceedings in City's midfield. However, the latter hopes he will be back on the pitch doing what he does best come the New Year.

De Bruyne, interviewed ahead of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on Sunday lunchtime, told Sky Sports: "It's going well (his recovery), it's getting along. I've still got a little bit to go but we're getting there."

Asked when he could return, the Belgian international added: "I hope for something closely after New Year if everything goes well."

How soon into the New Year De Bruyne will be available for selection, of course, remains to be seen. The Blues' first scheduled fixture in 2024 is a Premier League clash against Newcastle United at St James' Park on January 13.

However, Pep Guardiola's troops will open 2024 by beginning the defence of their FA Cup crown. City will enter the competition at the third round stage