Manchester City midfielder Kevin De Bruyne will be one of at least three absentees for his side when they take on Newcastle United in Saturday night's Premier League battle at the Etihad.

The 32-year-old sustained another hamstring injury in last week's opening 3-0 win over Burnley, and the issue is serious enough to render him unavailable for the next three to four months.

De Bruyne was one of two City players missing from the ranks in Wednesday's UEFA Super Cup showdown, as Bernardo Silva was feeling unwell, and the Portuguese will not make his return this weekend either

John Stones and Ruben Dias were also on the bench in Piraeus following recent injuries, but the former is now dealing with a new muscular issue, while Dias is still uncertain following a head knock.

Ederson's spot in goal is safe, as is Kyle Walker's given Stones's absence, but Dias - if passed fit - could displace Manuel Akanji, who did not cover himself in glory against Sevilla.

Josko Gvardiol may very well hold his position and make his first Premier League start, but Nathan Ake's spot at left-back could also come under threat from the returning Rico Lewis.

Rodri and Mateo Kovacic should be untouchable in the middle while De Bruyne recovers, and Phil Foden could hold his place in the XI as Silva watches on from home.

Despite his crucial contribution in midweek, Cole Palmer may be dropped for the fresh legs of Julian Alvarez, but Jack Grealish - who did not see the field against Burnley - may retain his place in support of Erling Haaland.

Manchester City possible starting lineup: Ederson; Walker, Dias, Gvardiol, Lewis; Rodri, Kovacic; Foden, Alvarez, Grealish; Haaland

Written by
Ben Knapton