Ilkay Gundogan injury: Pep Guardiola fears the German will be out for ‘a long time’ after midfielder limps off against Watford

PEP GUARDIOLA fears Ilkay Gundogan will be out for “a long time” after the German limped off the pitch during Manchester’s City’s 2-0 win over Watford in tears.

Gundogan, 26, suffered knee ligament damage after being clattered by Nordin Amrabat and had to be subbed off at the Etihad on Wednesday.

PA:Press Association

Guardiola said: “I’m so sad for Ilkay Gundogan as it looks like we’ll be without him for a long time – we will know more tomorrow, it doesn’t look good.

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“We’ll know the extent of the injury when he has been properly assessed by the doctor but I think he may be out for some time.”

While Man City are likely to be without Gundogan for Sunday’s huge clash at home to Arsenal, they will be able to call on revitalised midfielder Yaya Toure.

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The Ivorian powerhouse, 33, has impressed since being reinstated in Guardiola’s team.

Despite being charged with drink driving, Guardiola has put faith in the former Barcelona star.

Guardiola, 45, said: “Yaya is an exceptional player and if he plays like he did today, we are very happy for him.”

City’s win over Watford leaves them fourth in the table and seven points behind leaders Chelsea.

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