Arsenal Premier League title rivals suffer another major injury setback as star man misses key win

One of Arsenal's main title rivals, Manchester City, have received some bad news on the injury front. Kevin De Bruyne, one of the best players within their all-star squad, could be set for another spell out of action with a hamstring problem.

The 32-year-old has already spent a significant portion of the season on the side lines. For him to be shelved again so soon after returning would be a massive blow for the Sky Blues.

Speaking in a press conference after the 1-0 win against Brentford, City boss Pep Guardiola said: "We did not use Kevin today because he has niggles in his hamstring position. He's okay. It's more caution and prevention than anything. He didn't feel comfortable and the doctors said there was a little bit of risk. After five months off, we did not take any risk with that."

How will Manchester City cope without Kevin De Bruyne?

De Bruyne almost universally considered as one of the best players in the world. As such, City would certainly be better off with him in the starting XI - but his involvement is evidently not necessary for them to be successful. The Belgian international did not feature at all against Brentford - nevertheless, the Citizens were able to escape with a 1-0 win. The likes of Phil Foden, Bernardo Silva and Julian Alvarez have all been able to fill the creative hole left by De Bruyne in his absence. Foden, in particular, has effectively taken over De Bruyne's role as the advanced playmaker in the heart of midfield.

City still lead Arsenal in the title race, but are nevertheless a single point behind Liverpool. The Reds have their star player - Mohamed Salah - back in the team. This certainly gives Liverpool an advantage on paper, but the Gunners' fine form and City's ridiculous squad depth will ensure a closely-run battle for the trophy.