Huge boost for Man City! Assist king Kevin De Bruyne named in Pep Guardiola’s squad for upcoming Club World Cup
Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has been named to the club’s squad for the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup in Saudi Arabia, marking his return from an almost four-month injury hiatus.
De Bruyne has been out of the City team since August 11th, when he suffered a hamstring injury just 23 minutes into the Premier League season opener against Burnley.
The Belgian recently compared his hamstrings to a “wet kitchen towel,” emphasising the complexities and fragility of his injury.
De Bruyne expressed his desire to return, saying he expects to be back on the pitch in early 2024.
Although his participation in the event is still doubtful, his inclusion in City’s Club World Cup squad opens the door to a return sooner.
The Club World Cup roster features a mix of seasoned and young players. Ederson, Kyle Walker, Ruben Dias, Jack Grealish, and Erling Haaland are among the notable players on City’s roster.
The tournament begins on December 12 with a match between host representative Al Ittihad and New Zealand’s OFC champions Auckland City. Manchester City and Copa Libertadores champions Fluminense will enter the competition later, with City set to play either Leon or Urawa Red Diamonds on December 19.
Since its inception in 2005, when it replaced the Intercontinental Cup, European teams have dominated the Club World Cup. European teams have dominated the finals, with only Corinthians in 2012 being the only non-European team to win the Club World Cup. Notably, South American clubs have seen a drop in representation in recent years, with teams from all over the world making great progress in the event.
