Pep Guardiola already has his Kevin De Bruyne replacement with player set for unfamiliar role

Pep Guardiola has already identified his Kevin De Bruyne replacement.

The Manchester City boss has confirmed De Bruyne faces a “few months out” with a hamstring injury, with the club weighing up whether he will undergo surgery.

The 32-year-old was forced off in the first half of June’s Champions League final against Inter and did not play a minute of pre-season.

De Bruyne returned for the second half of the Community Shield to Arsenal and captained City against Burnley in Friday’s Premier League opener.

But the Belgian only lasted 23 minutes at Turf Moor before being forced off.

The City boss said in his press conference ahead of the UEFA Super Cup game against Sevilla, as per Manchester Evening News: "It's a serious injury.

"We have to decide surgery or not surgery but a few months out."

When Guardiola was pressed on the reasons behind De Bruyne aggravating his hamstring problems, he said: "Give me 25 days of preparation, and you will not be injured. Of course, we could say 'don't play'. I spoke to the doctors and the physios with him, and he said he felt good. But unfortunately, it happened."

Guardiola identifies De Bruyne replacement

Guardiola identified Phil Foden as a potential De Bruyne replacement, with the Belgian midfielder likely to be out for some four months.

On whether Foden can play centrally, Guardiola said: "He can play there and outside too.

“[Mateo] Kovacic can play there. We have a squad for finding a solution."

Speaking in Athens ahead of Wednesday’s Super Cup, City midfielder Rodri was also full of praise for Foden.

In a press conference, the Spaniard said: “I think he can play anywhere.

“I think he is the best player we have between the lines, turning and facing the goal.

“When he plays there I like him there very much but when he plays winger he is also decisive.

“It’s up to the coach where he decides to put him. His talent can do it.”