Rodri Injury Update Clouds Man City Trip To Villa Park
Man City are preparing for a significant Premier League test at Villa Park, and the focus is firmly on the fitness of key midfielder Rodri. Pep Guardiola confirmed that the Spaniard will not feature this weekend as he continues his recovery from a hamstring problem picked up before the October international break. Supporters will be watching closely, as the champions aim to regain rhythm without their influential midfield anchor.
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Guardiola stated: “The guys who were not able [to play] against Villareal are still not ready.” Rodri remains sidelined along with Abdukodir Khusanov, who is also working his way back to match readiness. The Man City boss added on Khusanov: “I think he’s close but he’s still not ready from having an injury in a dangerous, dangerous position in his body.”
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Squad Concerns For Man City
Rodri’s absence has already impacted Man City in recent fixtures, including their Champions League win over Villarreal, where he was not in the squad. His role as the stabilising force in midfield is difficult to replicate, and the team will again turn to alternatives.
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Midfielder Nico Gonzalez has stepped in for Rodri recently, impressing with his composure. However, he is now a doubt himself after suffering a foot knock in the Villarreal game. Guardiola explained: “I didn’t see the doctors, we’ll see today and tomorrow how he feels. It was something with his feet.”
With two midfielders potentially missing, Man City may need to shuffle personnel and use tactical flexibility against a Villa side that presses aggressively in front of their home fans.
Man City Aim To End Villa Park Struggle
Villa Park has not been a happy hunting ground for Man City recently, with Guardiola’s team winless in their last three visits. With both sides eager for a positive result, this match carries weight in the early title race narrative.
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Villa also have a point to prove after a surprising Europa League defeat to Go Ahead Eagles. Guardiola recognises the challenge, saying: “They were much better than us at the two fixtures we played at Villa Park. Hopefully it will be different on Sunday.”
Emery Appreciation And Tactical Challenge
Guardiola has long admired Unai Emery’s coaching approach, praising his detailed preparation and tactical acumen. “The admiration I have for Unai [Emery] is so high, consistent and well-prepared,” he said. He continued: “They aren’t in the Champions League this season but for me they are they were in the Champions League last season and created a lot of problems. Well organised, quality, one of the toughest away games we’ll have all season.”
Man City will need focus, intensity and clinical finishing to overcome an Emery side that boasts structure, tactical clarity and confidence at home.
