Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that Rodri is back in contention after a 236-day absence, offering the Premier League champions a timely boost ahead of their clash with Tottenham Hotspur at the Etihad Stadium.
Rodri, who suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury and later a setback at the Club World Cup, is expected to be eased back into action and could feature from the bench. Guardiola labelled him “still the best in the world” and stressed the importance of giving him minutes.
Additional Fitness Updates
Phil Foden is also fit again, giving City further attacking options. In goal, Guardiola has a decision to make, with Ederson now recovered from illness but James Trafford impressing both in his debut and during his spell at Burnley.
Coaching Changes
The City manager also spoke positively about his new-look backroom staff, which now includes former Liverpool assistant Pep Lijnders, set-piece specialist James French, and ex-City defender Kolo Touré.
Looking Ahead
City come into the fixture off the back of a 4-0 victory over Wolves and a productive tour in the USA, with Guardiola warning of the challenge posed by Thomas Frank’s Spurs.
FAQs
- When was Rodri last injured? He has been sidelined since October with an ACL tear.
- Will he start vs Spurs? Likely not, but he could feature from the bench.
- Who is in goal? Guardiola will decide between Trafford and Ederson.
- Which players’ futures are uncertain? Manuel Akanji, Savinho, and Ederson.
- What was City’s last result? A 4-0 win over Wolves.
Conclusion
Manchester City head into Saturday’s meeting with Spurs boosted by the return of Rodri and Foden, though Guardiola faces a key decision in goal. The champions will look to build momentum against a resurgent Tottenham side.