Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that midfielder Rodri will miss the upcoming Premier League fixture against Everton due to ongoing fitness concerns. The update comes as the Blues prepare to resume domestic duties following the latest international break.
After a challenging start to the 2024/25 campaign — marked by consecutive defeats to Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton — Manchester City have shown steady improvement in recent weeks. However, Guardiola now faces another setback as his squad continues to manage multiple injury issues ahead of their return to the Etihad Stadium.
Rodri, who has struggled with his fitness since returning from a long-term ACL injury sustained during the FIFA Club World Cup in the summer, suffered a hamstring problem in City’s 1-0 win over Brentford prior to the break. Guardiola confirmed during Friday’s press conference that the Spaniard will not be available for Saturday’s clash.
“Rodri will not be involved against Everton. We have to protect him and give him time to fully recover,” Guardiola stated, suggesting that Nico Gonzalez could be handed a starting role in defensive midfield.
The manager also provided updates on other members of his squad, including Omar Marmoush and Rayan Ait-Nouri, both of whom have recently returned to training after respective injuries. Marmoush suffered a thigh problem while representing Egypt in September, while Ait-Nouri had been sidelined since August due to an ankle injury picked up against Tottenham.
“They trained yesterday; they are much, much better. They’re close to coming back,” Guardiola confirmed. Although neither is expected to start, both players could feature from the bench as they continue their return to full fitness.
Meanwhile, Mateo Kovacic has been cleared to make his long-awaited comeback after recovering from Achilles surgery that sidelined him for much of the previous season. Guardiola expressed optimism about the Croatian midfielder’s reintegration: “It’s good news. He can start for 50 or 60 minutes. Step by step, he’ll give us quality moments, quality minutes.”
Saturday’s meeting with Everton presents Manchester City with an opportunity to temporarily reclaim top spot in the Premier League table. The reigning champions continue to balance an evolving squad under new football director Hugo Viana, who oversaw an active summer transfer window aimed at refreshing Guardiola’s roster for another title push.
FAQ
- Why is Rodri unavailable for Manchester City’s match against Everton?
Rodri is sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained before the international break, following a difficult recovery period from a previous ACL issue.
- Who could replace Rodri in midfield?
Young midfielder Nico Gonzalez is expected to start in the defensive midfield role against Everton in Rodri’s absence.
- What is the latest on Omar Marmoush and Rayan Ait-Nouri?
Both players have returned to full training and are close to regaining full match fitness, though they may start on the bench this weekend.
- Is Mateo Kovacic fit to play?
Yes, Kovacic has fully recovered from his Achilles surgery and is available for selection, though Guardiola plans to ease him back gradually.
- What’s at stake for Manchester City this weekend?
A win over Everton would allow City to temporarily move to the top of the Premier League table as they continue their title defence.
Conclusion
While Manchester City enter their clash against Everton in strong form, Pep Guardiola’s confirmation of Rodri’s continued absence is a setback for the champions. The return of key players like Mateo Kovacic and the nearing fitness of Marmoush and Ait-Nouri provide optimism, but City’s midfield depth will once again be tested. With the opportunity to climb to the top of the table, Guardiola’s men will be eager to maintain momentum despite their ongoing injury challenges.
