Man City star Kevin De Bruyne suffers groin injury in boost for Arsenal and Liverpool

Manchester City star Kevin De Bruyne has suffered a fresh injury setback.

According to journalist Kristof Terreur, Kevin De Bruyne has not been included in the Belgium squad after suffering a "minor groin injury."

Belgium will step up their preparations for Euro 2024 in the upcoming international break with friendlies against Republic of Ireland and England on Saturday 23 March and Tuesday 26 March respectively.

De Bruyne missed the first five months of the season after tearing his hamstring in City's Premier League opener in August.

The 32-year-old was substituted during City's 1-1 draw with Liverpool on Sunday, although his visible frustration at Pep Guardiola's decision suggested he wanted to remain on the pitch.

On Thursday Belgium coach Dominic Tedesco said: "He’s been playing with a minor groin issue during the last games. "Yesterday I spoke to the doctor and Kevin and we decided that the risk is too big. It's better to give him time to recover well at City and then have him ready for the Euros."

It seems unlikely that De Bruyne will feature in City's FA Cup quarter-final tie with Newcastle United on Saturday.

More significantly, the Belgian star could be a doubt for the Premier League clash with title rivals Arsenal on March 31.

De Bruyne returned from his long-term injury in January and has been in inspired form since, contributing 13 assists and two goals in 13 games in all competitions.

Any prolonged absence for De Bruyne this time could seriously damage City's hopes of defending their treble.

Guardiola's side are currently third in the Premier League table, one point behind Liverpool and Arsenal.

On Friday City will find out who they will face in the quarter-finals of the Champions League.

Guardiola is already without Jack Grealish and Ederson, and both are doubtful to feature against Arsenal at the end of the month.