Man City suffer major injury blow ahead of Liverpool clash | OneFootball

Rodri faces fresh setback as Guardiola provides update ahead of Man City’s clash with Liverpool

Manchester City’s preparations for their crucial Premier League fixture against Liverpool have been disrupted by another fitness concern involving key midfielder Rodri. The Spaniard, who recently returned from a long-term knee injury, has suffered a fresh setback just days before the meeting at the Etihad Stadium.

Guardiola cautious over Rodri recovery

Pep Guardiola confirmed the news ahead of City’s Champions League encounter with Borussia Dortmund, explaining that the midfielder was omitted from the matchday squad due to discomfort. The manager made it clear that his decision was based on caution rather than risk-taking, emphasising the importance of protecting Rodri’s long-term fitness.

“He doesn’t feel perfect, so we didn’t want to take the risk,” said Guardiola before kick-off. “It’s just a small setback. He needs a bit more time to feel good and be ready to play football. What matters most is that he’s fully fit and doesn’t suffer another long absence.”

Rodri’s return to full action had initially offered a significant boost to City, with the midfielder featuring as a substitute in their 3-1 Premier League win over Bournemouth. That cameo marked his first appearance in more than a month, following four matches missed across all competitions due to a recurring issue. However, his absence from the Champions League squad raised concerns that his recovery might have stalled.

Photo: IMAGO

Key influence in Guardiola’s midfield

Since joining Manchester City in 2019, Rodri has become the heartbeat of Guardiola’s system. His tactical awareness, ball retention and defensive balance are fundamental to how the team control possession and dictate tempo. Few players in Europe have managed to combine positional intelligence with composure in the same way, making him one of the most influential midfielders in modern football.

Guardiola’s side have occasionally struggled in his absence, particularly in transitions where his defensive cover is so vital. City’s record without Rodri last season highlighted his importance, with dropped points and disjointed performances underscoring how irreplaceable he has become.

Strategic implications for Liverpool meeting

With the top of the Premier League table already tightening, the timing of this setback could hardly be worse for City. Liverpool arrive in Manchester in confident form, having secured consecutive wins and clean sheets in both domestic and European competition. Arne Slot’s side appear well-drilled and balanced, posing a serious threat to Guardiola’s men.

If Rodri is unavailable, Guardiola may be forced to adjust his midfield structure once again, potentially turning to Mateo Kovacic, Kalvin Phillips or Rico Lewis to fill the void. Yet none possess quite the same blend of defensive nous and tactical discipline that Rodri brings. His absence could therefore have a tangible impact on how City manage possession and limit Liverpool’s attacking transitions.

Guardiola’s patient approach

While City remain confident that the 29-year-old’s issue is not a recurrence of his previous ACL injury, the manager is adamant that patience is crucial. Guardiola’s handling of his senior players has long been rooted in long-term thinking, and he is unlikely to jeopardise Rodri’s recovery for the sake of a single match, even one as significant as this.

“It’s about how he feels,” Guardiola reiterated. “He’ll come back when he’s fully ready. We need him for the whole season, not just one game.”

Manchester City’s depth and adaptability have often been their greatest assets under Guardiola, but there is no denying the difference Rodri makes when anchoring the midfield. His potential absence this weekend will test City’s resilience as they aim to keep pace in what is shaping up to be one of the most competitive title races in recent years.