Manchester City Held to Goalless Draw by Inter Milan in Champions League Rematch, De Bruyne Injury Sparks Concern

Manchester City’s high-flying Champions League campaign faced a bump in the road as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Inter Milan at the Etihad Stadium. In a rematch of the 2023 UEFA Champions League final, the reigning champions struggled to break down a resolute Inter defense, leaving questions about their depth and adaptability. To add to their concerns, midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne was forced off injured, raising alarms over his availability in a crucial stretch of the season.

While the draw extended Manchester City’s unbeaten run in the competition to 24 matches, the bigger story was the sight of Kevin De Bruyne limping off just before halftime. The Belgian has been the heartbeat of City’s attack, and his early exit with a muscle injury could have long-term consequences. De Bruyne’s fitness has already been a concern this season, and this latest setback will raise questions about his availability for key upcoming fixtures.

Inter Milan, who were beaten by City in the UCL final just months ago, came into the match with a point to prove. Simone Inzaghi’s side executed a perfect defensive strategy, frustrating Erling Haaland and limiting City's chances. Marcus Thuram and Carlos Augusto both forced saves from Ederson, while Henrikh Mkhitaryan missed a golden opportunity to seal a shock win.

Inter’s defensive solidity and ability to threaten on the counterattack suggest they remain a serious contender in this year's competition, especially as they remain unbeaten in all competitions so far this season. The result will be seen as a moral victory for the Italian side, who will feel they could have taken all three points.

Pep Guardiola’s side has now only won five of their last 14 matches against Italian opposition, with this latest draw continuing a frustrating pattern. Erling Haaland, City’s goal machine, was kept quiet for much of the game, while substitute Phil Foden couldn’t fill the creative void left by De Bruyne. City's struggles to unlock deep-lying defenses in Europe may become a recurring theme, especially if De Bruyne’s absence is prolonged.

For Manchester City, the focus will now shift to how they adapt without De Bruyne. The Belgian’s potential absence could derail their ambitions of a second successive Champions League triumph and will place more pressure on players like Foden and Bernardo Silva to step up.

Inter Milan, meanwhile, will leave Manchester with confidence, knowing they can compete with Europe’s elite. With their unbeaten streak intact, Inzaghi’s men will be looking to build on this result as they eye a deeper run in the competition.