Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that the team will be without key midfielder Rodri for their Premier League opener against Chelsea this Sunday.
Rodri sustained what appeared to be a knee injury during Spain’s Euro 2024 final triumph over England, leading to his early exit at halftime.
In his pre-match press conference, Guardiola provided an update on Rodri’s condition, stating that the 28-year-old has not yet resumed full training with the squad, effectively ruling him out of the crucial clash against Chelsea.
“He didn’t train,” Guardiola confirmed to the media. “I didn’t see him yet. I think he feels good, but we will see when he starts to move his body how he feels.”
When asked about the likelihood of Rodri featuring in the Chelsea game, Guardiola was clear, “No chance.”
Rodri’s absence is a significant blow to City, but it’s not their only injury concern. The club also revealed that promising young winger Oscar Bobb has suffered a serious setback in what was expected to be his breakout season.
Bobb sustained a severe leg fracture during a training session, which will require surgery.
“It was in the training session and unfortunately he had a big impact and is injured,” Guardiola disclosed. “He will have surgery and hopefully he will be well and we welcome him back as soon as possible in three, four months.”
Guardiola expressed his disappointment, not just because Bobb was showing great promise in pre-season, but also because of the long-term nature of the injury.
“We are so sad for him, but not because he was making an incredible pre-season, because that doesn’t matter, when [the] injury is a long time it is a problem and we’re looking forward to seeing him again as soon as possible. A good recovery as quick as possible and that’s all,” he concluded.
With these injuries, City faces an even tougher challenge as they head into the new Premier League season, starting with a tough fixture against Chelsea.
