KEVIN DE BRUYNE is reportedly facing the rest of the year on the sidelines.
The Manchester City star hobbled off the pitch during the Premier League opening game against Burnley.
De Bruyne, 32, had to leave the pitch against the Clarets after just 22 minutes due to a hamstring injury.
Now, according to Nieuwsblad Sport, the Belgian ace may need surgery.
The report claims that as a result he could be ruled out of action for the remainder of 2023 and won't be fully recovered until early 2024.
However, it is suggested that a final decision on surgery has not been made even if it is seen as the "best option".
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De Bruyne was replaced by former Chelsea midfielder Matteo Kovacic in the 23rd minute with his side already 1-0 up thanks to a goal from Erling Haaland.
City managed to cope without their talisman as they claimed their first victory of the season 3-0 at Turf Moor.
But manager Pep Guardiola could be concerned should De Bruyne be set for an extended spell on the sidelines.
He said: "Kevin de Bruyne’s injury is serious one. He will be out for a few months.
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"We have to decide in the next days on surgery but for sure we lose Kevin for some time."
Should De Bruyne have the surgery then it could force City back into the transfer market.
The club have already signed Kovacic and Josko Gvardiol this summer for a combined fee of £100million.
However, the club have been interested in signing West Ham star Lucas Paqueta.
The Brazilian midfielder played a starring role in the Hammers' Conference League triumph last season.
City have already made a verbal offer of £70m for the former Lyon and AC Milan star, but that was rejected by West Ham.
The East London side have told City to vastly improve their offer should they wish to sign Paqueta.
Manager David Moyes has admitted that Paqueta's head has been turned by the interest from City, but he has remained professional and played in the club's 1-1 draw against Bournemouth.
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