Manchester City assess Rodri fitness amid Premier League title race
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola will assess the fitness of midfielder Rodri ahead of Saturday’s Premier League fixture against Brentford following a recent groin injury.
Guardiola plays down midfield absence
The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner was forced off with a groin problem during an April victory over Arsenal and subsequently missed Monday’s chaotic 3-3 draw against Everton.
That result on Merseyside leaves the reigning champions trailing league leaders Arsenal by five points with a vital game in hand.
However, the manager insisted the defensive collapse at the Hill Dickinson Stadium was not entirely due to missing his talismanic anchor.
“It doesn’t depend on him. We gave the goals away but not because Rodri was not there.”
Pep Guardiola
A season disrupted by setbacks
The Spain captain has endured a frustrating campaign, initially missing significant time with a severe knee injury before suffering subsequent hamstring and groin issues.
Despite returning to make 35 appearances for club and country, the former Atletico Madrid man remains less than fully match sharp.
“We have survived without him for many, many months. He still doesn’t feel completely comfortable. He will be ready when he is fit – we will see on Friday afternoon or on Saturday.”
Pep Guardiola
Data highlights undeniable influence
Despite the manager’s public stance, statistics clearly demonstrate the profound impact the 29-year-old has on his team’s success.
Since arriving in Manchester in August 2019, the club boasts a significantly higher win percentage and dictates greater possession when their midfield maestro is deployed.
His commanding presence provides vital defensive protection, a structural quality that was sorely lacking during the recent second-half capitulation against the Toffees.