Kevin De Bruyne injury : Belgian set to miss Manchester City opener

The highly anticipated 2023/24 Premier League season is just around the corner, but several prominent players are already set to miss the early stages of the campaign.

As teams embark on their pre-season training and work on squad improvements and tactical strategies, having a full complement of players available can be crucial for a positive start. However, some clubs will have to cope without key individuals in their opening fixtures.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the superstar players who are likely to miss the start of the 2023/24 Premier League season.

Kevin De Bruyne – Manchester City:
Belgian midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne suffered a hamstring tear during Manchester City’s Champions League triumph over Inter Milan last month.

The unfortunate injury might sideline the 32-year-old for City’s Community Shield clash with Arsenal and their Premier League opener against Burnley.

Ivan Toney – Brentford:
Brentford’s prolific center-forward Ivan Toney is currently serving a lengthy suspension due to breaching the Premier League’s gambling rules.

He will be unable to participate in matches until January 16 next year. Toney’s impressive tally of 20 Premier League goals in the previous season caught the attention of top clubs, but his ban has temporarily hindered potential moves.

Stefan Bajcetic – Liverpool:
Spanish talent Stefan Bajcetic was enjoying a breakthrough season with Liverpool in 2022/23 before an injury disrupted his progress in March. The 18-year-old midfielder made significant contributions, making 11 Premier League appearances and establishing himself as a first-choice pick under Jurgen Klopp. While Bajcetic is on the road to recovery, he might not be fit for the start of the new campaign.

Michael Olise – Crystal Palace:
Crystal Palace’s attacking midfield dynamo, Michael Olise, was one of their standout performers in the Premier League last season.

A hamstring injury sustained while representing France in the U21 European Championship will likely keep him sidelined until late August. This setback might impact Palace’s early fixtures.

Rodrigo Bentancur – Tottenham Hotspur:
Uruguayan international Rodrigo Bentancur plays a crucial role in Tottenham’s midfield, but he won’t be able to feature for the club until late September at the earliest.

The 26-year-old suffered a crucial ligament injury in February, and his absence coincided with a decline in Spurs’ performance. Although he is following his rehabilitation program, he won’t be available until the season is well underway.

Benoit Badiashile – Chelsea:
Promising French defender Benoit Badiashile had a challenging first season in the Premier League with Chelsea, facing injuries and playing in an underperforming team. Unfortunately, a groin injury in late May will likely see him miss the opening weeks of the new season, hindering his progress in London.

While these players’ absence will undoubtedly impact their respective teams, it provides an opportunity for others to step up and make an impact in the early stages of the Premier League campaign.