Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne could return to training at some point this week, according to manager Pep Guardiola.

The Belgian international has not played since the 2-0 win over Aston Villa last month due to a hamstring injury, but Guardiola claims the 29-year-old is close to making his comeback:

“The doctors told me maybe next week, maybe if he can start training with the team, that is good news for us.”

Whether he’ll be fit to face Arsenal on Sunday, it remains to be seen, but Guardiola was cautious about putting any timeframe on his return to the first team, as he is concerned about a potential recurrence.

De Bruyne suffered a series of muscular injuries during the 2018/19 season, which restricted him to just 11 Premier League starts that campaign, so it appears they are being mindful of his past fitness record.

It’s likely that the Belgian would only be deemed ready for a place on the bench even if he were passed fit for the match at the Emirates this weekend.