Why Man City did not name Rodri in reduced Champions League squad today

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·5 November 2025

Why Man City did not name Rodri in reduced Champions League squad today

Man City have named a reduced matchday squad for the League Phase fixture at home to Borussia Dortmund

Rodri has been left out of the Manchester City matchday squad for Wednesday night’s Champions League clash against Borussia Dortmund.

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The Spaniard only returned to action for Man City at the weekend as he made a late substitute appearance in the 3-1 win over Bournemouth after missing four games across all competitions either side of the October international break.

However, he is unavailable for selection once again as City welcome Dortmund to the Etihad Stadium in an important European tie.

Pep Guardiola is permitted to name a 23-man squad for a Champions League fixture, but has only named 22 players for the League Phase encounter against the Bundesliga side with Rodri not making the cut.

Delivering an update on the midfielder ahead of kick-off, the Man City manager confirmed a fresh setback for the 29-year-old who suffered an ACL injury that cost him most of last season.

Speaking to TNT Sports, Guardiola said: “He does not feel perfect so that is why he do not take the risk.

“He will comeback, this is a little setback. He needs a bit more time to feel good and play football. It does not matter if he plays good or bad knowing that he is fine and will not be out for a while.”

Man City are in Premier League action at home to Liverpool this weekend, but Rodri is now a doubt for the showdown between the two title rivals.

In the Spain international’s absence, Nico Gonzalez has been tasked with anchoring City’s midfield against Dortmund alongside Phil Foden and summer signing Tijjani Reijnders.