Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has picked up a hamstring injury that will keep him out for “between four and six weeks,” his manager Pep Guardiola confirmed on Friday.

De Bruyne limped off with a complaint in Wednesday’s 2-0 win over Aston Villa and Guardiola said a scan has revealed bad news.

“It is a big blow. But we have to move forward. I am not saying that nobody doesn’t know about how important he is,” Guardiola said.

“Unfortunately for him and for us, he will be out for an important part of the season and we have to find a solution because everyone is struggling in this situation and we have to adapt.”

Defender Kyle Walker has a minor hip issue and will not play in Saturday’s FA Cup tie with Cheltenham Town.

“Kyle had a big impact kick in his hip. But just a kick, and so he is not available (for Cheltenham). But we wish he is available for the next game.”

Meanwhile, Guardiola wished striker Sergio Aguero well in his recovery after testing positive for the coronavirus.

“What we wish right now is that Sergio feels better,” he said.

“He felt uncomfortable in the first three days after testing positive. He felt quite tired, with all the symptoms you get.

“Hopefully, he can come back soon. A long time we have missed our best striker.”

NAN