Guardiola reveals blow ahead of Villarreal clash as he provides injury update on duo | OneFootball

Pep Guardiola says he does not expect Rodri to return in the next two games.

The midfielder is currently sidelined with a muscle injury in the latest setback for the former Ballon d’Or winner following his ACL injury which kept him out for most of last season.

But Guardiola says it is not expected to keep him out for much longer, though thinks Villarreal on Tuesday followed by Aston Villa on Sunday will likely come too soon.

“I don’t think so,” he responded when asked if he could be back for Villarreal.

“Villarreal, then Aston Villa, I don’t think so.

“It’s not long but it’s muscular and we have to be careful.

“I said many times we try not to re-injure (Rodri) but we have not been able to do that so that’s why.

“We will see. Step by step.”

Nico O’Reilly, meanwhile, was forced off with an injury in the win over Everton but Guardiola is optimistic it is nothing serious.

“I think it’s a knock,” he said.

“I think it’s nothing but we will see. Hopefully it will not be dangerous.”