Pep Guardiola is anxious to find out whether Rodri will be ready to compete against Arsenal on Sunday, as he disclosed that the Ballon d’Or winner faced difficulties with his knee this week.
Rodri, who sustained a cruciate ligament injury during a match against Arsenal last September, has only featured in two games over the past 11 months.
Nevertheless, he started for City in both the Manchester derby last Sunday and the subsequent 2-0 victory over Napoli on Thursday, leaving the match after Erling Haaland scored. Guardiola hopes Rodri can manage three significant games within a single week.
Rodri was substituted for Nico Gonzalez during Manchester City’s triumph over Napoli (Action Images via Reuters)
However, Guardiola has expressed concern following Rodri’s knee issues during Wednesday’s training, even though he believed he was fit to face Napoli.
Now, uncertainty surrounds his availability for the match at the Emirates Stadium. Guardiola mentioned, “I don’t know yet. He was so smart [against Napoli], I understand that a 1-0 lead can be precarious, but when he doesn’t feel right, we always discuss it.”
“We assess him day by day. On [Wednesday], during training, he didn’t feel comfortable and didn’t feel well, but he insisted, ‘No, no, I’ll be fine tomorrow,’ and played brilliantly, just like Rodri does.”
“With him on the pitch, we feel more secure, but naturally, with his injury history, we must be cautious, and we’ll determine on Sunday how he is feeling.”
Guardiola acknowledged Rodri’s mental resilience but is cautious not to burden his fellow Spaniard’s knee too much.
“The most exceptional players I’ve coached throughout my managerial career, even when I was a player, possess an incredible mindset,” he elaborated, indicating his head.
“They are extraordinarily confident, and Rodri embodies that. However, the knee operates differently from what one might assume.”
“The knee requires time to heal. With patience on both sides, he will undoubtedly return to form.”
