Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says midfielder Kevin De Bruyne has tested positive for Covid-19 and is self-isolating.
De Bruyne, who will miss City’s trip to Everton on Sunday, returned a positive test during the international break after playing in both of Belgium’s World Cup qualifiers against Estonia and Wales.
Guardiola said: “Unfortunately, Kevin got a positive test for Covid in Belgium.
“He will be isolated for 10 days.”
As well as the match against Everton, De Bruyne will be out as City host Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League on Wednesday.
F1 Practice continues amid Merc-Red Bull drama LIVE!
Conte on his most difficult challenge and keeping Kane
Transfer Centre LIVE! Pogba & Ole futures, De Jong to City?
Mercedes denied review into Verstappen-Hamilton controversy
Neville: It could turn ugly if Man Utd don’t respond
PL predictions: More misery for Ole at Watford
Souness: Angry Liverpool have a point to prove vs Arsenal
Lingard expects to leave Man Utd after talks collapse
Guardiola said he was told two days ago about the positive test, so there is a chance the 30-year-old can return for the Premier League match against West Ham on November 28.
But Guardiola said: “Forget about fitness and momentum, he’s positive, now he has to recover well – that’s more important than a person being positive.
“We have to be careful. People are dying from Covid. He’s vaccinated so hopefully he will be okay.
“We do not worry about what we are going to miss. The person is more important – we have to help him and hope it goes well while he’s isolated.”
Fellow midfielder Jack Grealish could also miss the game at Goodison Park with the knock that forced him to pull out of the England squad for Monday’s World Cup qualifier in San Marino.
Phil Foden also picked up an injury but has a better chance of featuring at the weekend.
Guardiola said: “Jack is getting better.
“Phil Foden came back with a problem in his leg.
“Jack I don’t think [will be available], Phil maybe.”