Sky Sports (via Football Daily) have reported that while Kevin De Bruyne was absent from Man City training, the centre-back duo of Ruben Dias and John Stones have returned.
Ultimately, this update will both delight and sadden City fans, and for good reason.
While Stones and Dias finally being fully fit is an overwhelmingly positive update, the absence of De Bruyne from training is a concern.
The centre-back pair, who were arguably the finest defensive duo during the 2020/2021 season could perhaps be reunited once again, helping the Sky Blues to regain their much-needed defensive solidity.
However, the Belgian, who could well be potentially injured is a worry, as he has been the sole creator in a City side that have struggled to create many chances after the World Cup.
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After all, Pep Guardiola admitted that Erling Haaland needs to be made involved in the side, as he has been isolated at times this season.
As a result, while Stones and Dias returning to Man City training is brilliant news, De Bruyne not being anywhere in sight is the complete opposite.
Especially considering that the Premier League champions prepare to face Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday, who are their ultimate bogey team.
How could Stones and Dias’ return but De Bruyne absence impact Man City v Spurs?
Well, that depends on a number of factors.
While Man City have coped extremely well in the absence of Kevin De Bruyne in the past, the form of Bernardo Silva and Ilkay Gundogan has not been the best this season.
However, a big game against Tottenham does give the duo a chance to return to their brilliant best.
And if both, or even either one of John Stones or Ruben Dias start against Spurs, their displays depends on how fit they well and truly are to make an instant impact.
As for now, Man City supporters must be grateful that Dias and Stones are back in training, and hope that De Bruyne has not suffered an untimely injury after or during the Manchester Derby.