Pep Guardiola press conference: Erling Haaland and Rodri fitness updates ahead of Bournemouth | OneFootball

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has issued a fitness update on his side ahead of Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Bournemouth.

City’s two-month unbeaten streak in all competitions came to an end last week as Matty Cash’s stunning strike from distance inflicted a 1-0 defeat on Guardiola and co at the hands of Aston Villa at Villa Park.

Guardiola’s side returned to winning ways in midweek against Swansea City as goals from Jeremy Doku, Omar Marmoush and Rayan Cherki secured a 3-1 comeback win for the Blues in the Carabao Cup fourth-round to book a quarter-final tie with Brentford.

The Blues have enjoyed a fine few months of form as they look to mount a challenge for all trophies this term – in the backdrop of a subpar 2024-25 season wherein Guardiola and his men finished trophyless and recorded their lowest points tally in the Premier League (71) since the Catalan was appointed manager in the summer of 2016.

Erling Haaland missed the win in Wales on Wednesday after suffering a knock in last week’s defeat at Aston Villa – though it has to be said that the Norwegian was always likely to be rested in the Carabao Cup even if he were available for the trip.

Speaking in a press conference ahead of Sunday’s Premier League visit of Bournemouth, Guardiola has provided an update on the 25-year-old forward, who has been the be-all and end-all of Manchester City’s presence in front of goal this term.

Haaland has been deemed fit to start against Bournemouth by Guardiola, while Rodri remains doubtful but could make his return to action against the Cherries.

Rodri remained absent from the matchday squad against Aston Villa and Swansea City despite returning to first team-training in the days leading to last week’s loss.

“I think he will be ready to help us, I don’t if from the beginning but hopefully he can be with us,” said Guardiola on Rodri.

“I have the feeling when I think Rodri can come to his best – it will not be soon his best – but he can help us alongside all the alternatives I can have, we will be a team that will be difficult for the opponents to beat us. This is what I want.”

Rodri’s fitness concerns mean Manchester City are likely to start Nico Gonzalez in midfield on Sunday, with Rayan Cherki also expected to make his first Premier League start since his return to full fitness.

City can ill afford any premature slip-ups in the title race as Arsenal continue their flawless start to the season and set the tone early doors, with Guardiola and co beginning to get their act together after making a stuttering start to the campaign.