Pep Guardiola and Manchester City will have to wait a bit longer to see Rodri return from his latest injury setback.
The Spanish midfielder missed Saturday’s 2-0 win against Everton at the Etihad Stadium. Although there was some hope that he might make his comeback for midweek European action, Guardiola has now indicated that Rodri’s recovery will take longer than initially anticipated.
This news will raise concerns among Manchester City supporters, especially considering the team’s heavy reliance on Rodri’s ability to control the game and maintain composure in the midfield over recent seasons.
Rodri’s influence on City’s tactical setup has been significant, as his presence helps establish the team’s rhythm in both defensive and offensive phases. His absence in critical matches last season revealed weaknesses in Guardiola’s midfield strategy, compelling the coach to explore different systems and player combinations.
As Manchester City tackles a crowded fixture list in October, Rodri’s recovery will be handled with utmost care. Meanwhile, Guardiola and his coaching staff will continue to prepare alternative options, such as Nico Gonzalez, to fill the gap effectively.
After City’s victory over Everton, Guardiola was asked about Rodri’s availability for Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League match against Villarreal.
“I don’t think so,” the City manager replied. “I don’t think he’ll be ready for Aston Villa either,” he added.
“It’s a muscular issue, and we need to be cautious,” the 54-year-old continued. “We have attempted several times to avoid further injury, but that hasn’t happened, so we’ll have to wait and see.”
One potential candidate to cover for Rodri is Mateo Kovacic, who has recently returned to action after undergoing Achilles surgery earlier this summer.
“He possesses a unique ability to maintain possession, but we must remember he’s just come back from surgery and spent three or four months on the sidelines,” Guardiola said regarding the adaptable Croatian midfielder.
“I don’t want him playing the full 90 minutes right now. He will regain that endurance eventually, but I don’t feel he’s ready for that just yet,” he added. “For 20, 30, or even 60 minutes, Kovacic can work excellently alongside Bernardo and the older players. They are fantastic.”
Rodri’s continued absence may prompt Guardiola to rely more on the tactical flexibility within his squad or to further integrate Nico Gonzalez, who has shown flashes of brilliance since his high-profile transfer from FC Porto last January.
Players like John Stones, Rico Lewis, or Nico O’Reilly might be tasked with stepping into hybrid midfield roles, a strategy that Guardiola has effectively utilized in times of midfield scarcity.
Manchester City’s forthcoming matches against Villarreal and Aston Villa, followed by a fourth-round Carabao Cup clash at Swansea City, will undoubtedly test the team’s depth in the defensive midfield position.
Guardiola’s measured approach to Rodri’s recovery indicates a focus on long-term health rather than short-term gains, ensuring that his key player is fit for the demanding winter schedule and crucial matches ahead.