Pep Guardiola Issues Rodri Fitness Update Ahead of Leeds United Clash

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has provided an update on the fitness of Ballon d’Or–winning midfielder Rodri ahead of Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Leeds United. The Spain international remains unavailable as he continues his recovery from a recent hamstring setback.

Rodri’s Injury Situation

Rodri has been sidelined since picking up a hamstring problem in the 1–0 win at Brentford in early October. The issue arrived during a delicate phase of rehabilitation after the midfielder ruptured his ACL in September 2024, a period that severely disrupted his 2024–25 campaign.

The absence of the club’s midfield anchor has coincided with a mixed run of form for City. The Blues went into the November international break having won 11 of 14 matches in all competitions, but recent defeats to Newcastle United and Bayer Leverkusen have raised fresh concerns about consistency.

Guardiola’s Latest Update

Speaking at Friday’s pre-match press conference, Guardiola confirmed that Rodri will not be available for selection against Leeds United. On the midfielder’s progress he said Rodri is “not much far” from returning, but stressed that careful management remains necessary to avoid any relapse.

“He knows he has to take time to recover well mentally and physically and to be consistent from now until the end,” Guardiola added, underscoring the club’s cautious approach to reintegrating their key player.

Midfield Implications for City

Rodri’s ongoing absence — combined with Mateo Kovacic sidelined after heel surgery — has forced Guardiola to restructure his midfield options. Nico Gonzalez has been deployed regularly in the holding role, but Guardiola’s side have missed the consistency and control Rodri usually provides.

That makes the upcoming fixture at the Etihad and the run of matches afterwards important for Manchester City as they attempt to stabilise their title challenge and improve European prospects.

Conclusion

Rodri remains a few steps away from full match fitness and will not feature against Leeds United. Manchester City will continue to manage his comeback carefully to ensure long-term fitness. The club’s medical and coaching staff will prioritise a full, measured return so Rodri can contribute consistently in the decisive phases of the season.

FAQs

Q: When will Rodri be available again?

A: Guardiola said Rodri is “not much far” from returning but confirmed he will not be included for the Leeds clash. No exact date has been given — the club are prioritising a cautious, step-by-step return.

Q: What is Rodri recovering from?

A: He is recovering from a hamstring setback sustained in October, which followed an earlier ACL rupture in September 2024. The hamstring issue is being managed carefully to avoid aggravating previous problems.

Q: Who has covered for Rodri in midfield?

A: Nico Gonzalez has been used in the holding role while Rodri is absent. The club has also rotated other midfield options to cope with fixture congestion and injuries.

Q: Does Rodri’s absence affect City’s title hopes?

A: His absence has been a factor in recent inconsistency, but Guardiola’s squad depth means City remain competitive. The manager wants to ensure Rodri returns fully fit rather than rush him back and risk further setbacks.