Man City star set to return in time for Everton clash | OneFootball

Man City Fitness Concerns Ahead of Everton Clash

Pep Guardiola faces a race against time to get key players back to full fitness before Man City take on Everton at the Etihad. The league leaders have coped with setbacks before but the current injury list demands careful management, especially with Rodri once again at the centre of attention.

Rodri Edges Closer To Return

Rodri’s withdrawal against Brentford sent a ripple of concern through the Man City support after he completed just 22 minutes and was visibly frustrated as he made his way off. Guardiola confirmed a muscular issue and the midfielder later clarified the problem himself, telling Sky Sports: “I felt a little bit in the hamstring, but it seems as though it’s not that much.

“I stretched a bit, like in the final of the Euros [when he had to go off injured]. But the most important thing is it’s not that big.”

That calm response offers some reassurance, although Man City have been mindful of his workload since he tore his ACL last season. The schedule is demanding across multiple competitions and Guardiola rarely rushes back core players. Even so, Everton at home presents a favourable reintroduction. The medical staff are confident of a return for 8 October, which would significantly lift the midfield balance and rhythm.

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Omar Marmoush Nearing Availability

Omar Marmoush has been another long-term absentee, delayed longer than anticipated despite optimism before the international break. There was progress this week as he linked up with the Egypt squad and moved freely without crutches, a positive sign after weeks of individual rehabilitation.

Match fitness is still in question and Guardiola will not want to gamble with soft tissue recovery. Late October remains the realistic target, giving Man City an energetic forward option in rotation.

Rayan Ait-Nouri Still Sidelined

Summer signing Rayan Ait-Nouri has already missed seven matches after suffering an ankle issue against Tottenham in August. The setback kept him out of Algeria’s World Cup qualifiers versus Somalia and Uganda, and there has been no fresh update from the club.

The lack of clear information suggests ongoing monitoring rather than a confirmed timeline. His absence limits depth in wide defensive areas and forces tactical adjustments when rotating full backs, particularly in matches where natural width is essential.

Abdukodir Khusanov Closing In

Abdukodir Khusanov has also been missing since Guardiola revealed he would be out for three matches after the Arsenal fixture. He has now sat out four, implying a comeback is on the horizon. The Uzbekistan defender was not involved during international duty against Uruguay or Kuwait, which points towards a protected recovery phase.

Man City have enough defensive cover to avoid panic but having extra bodies during a congested period is vital. Everton will bring physical presence and set piece threat, areas where squad depth matters as much as individual quality.

Man City remain favourites regardless of absentees but Rodri’s potential availability changes the entire equation. Everton will know that stopping him is half the battle and Guardiola will be hoping his midfield anchor is ready to dictate proceedings once more at the Etihad.