Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Rodri has not sustained a fresh injury despite missing the Blues’ 4-1 victory over Borussia Dortmund in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday evening.City climbed to fourth place in the group-stage standings as goals from Erling Haaland, Rayan Cherki, and a stunning brace from Phil Foden secured another convincing win at the Etihad Stadium.
The victory extended City’s excellent run of form — with 10 wins in their last 13 games — as they prepare to host Liverpool this weekend in a blockbuster Premier League showdown.
Rodri’s Ongoing Fitness Concerns
Nico Gonzalez started in midfield once again amid growing concern over Rodri’s fitness. The 29-year-old Spaniard has faced a series of setbacks since returning from a long-term ACL injury sustained earlier this year.
Guardiola and his medical team have been cautious in reintroducing the midfielder, but Rodri’s recovery has been complicated by recurring muscle discomfort — most recently a hamstring issue that forced him off during City’s 1-0 win at Brentford in October.
After featuring briefly in the 3-1 victory over Bournemouth last weekend, Rodri was left out of the 22-man squad against Dortmund, raising concerns about another potential layoff.
Guardiola Provides Fitness Update
Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Guardiola clarified that the decision was purely precautionary:
“He (Rodri) doesn’t feel perfect, so that’s why we didn’t want to take a risk,” Guardiola said. “He will come up. These little setbacks make us realise that he needs a little more time to feel good and play football. It’s nothing dangerous or big — just more caution than anything else.”
Guardiola’s comments suggest the coaching staff are prioritising Rodri’s long-term fitness, especially with a crucial run of fixtures ahead.
City Focus Turns to Liverpool Clash
Manchester City now shift focus to Sunday’s highly anticipated Premier League meeting with Liverpool at the Etihad. The Blues will aim for their 11th win in 14 matches in all competitions as they continue to chase league leaders Arsenal.
Whether Rodri is deemed fit enough to make the bench remains to be seen, but Guardiola’s careful management highlights just how vital the Spaniard is to City’s title ambitions.
