WATCH: Kevin De Bruyne returns to training with Man City at Club World Cup as he closes in on long-awaited return from injury

The Belgian playmaker eased his way back into practice with his City co-stars, mockingly giving the ball a slight touch for his first touch. The 32-year-old has been sidelined since he sustained an injury in the first half of his team's first Premier League game of the season against Burnley.

De Bruyne joined his fellow City stars in training in Saudi Arabia ahead of their Club World Cup semi-final clash against Urawa Reds. However, there was no sight of star forward Erling Haaland, who is suffering from a foot injury.

Pep Guardiola's team will face the Japanese side in the Club World Cup semi-final on Tuesday. The winners will go on to meet Brazilian side Fluminense in the competition decider. City will then return to England to take on Everton in the Premier League on December 27.