De Bruyne carried off at Palace as Jesus also suffers injury

“Gabriel will be out for a little bit more than one month,” manager Pep Guardiola said. “Kevin, we will see tomorrow. Referees have to protect the players, that is all I ask.”

Belgium international De Bruyne, who has been instrumental to City’s success this season, suffered the injury after a collision with Palace’s Jason Puncheon in stoppage time at Selhurst Park and left the pitch on a stretcher, with his right leg in a brace.

Earlier in the match, Jesus landed awkwardly and had to be withdrawn. He made his way to the dressing room in tears, consoled by City’s medical staff.

The Premier League leaders have a home clash with Watford on Tuesday.