Pep Guardiola has placed considerable doubt over Rodri’s fitness ahead of Liverpool’s trip to Manchester City on Sunday.
The Reds head to the Etihad at the weekend having rediscovered some form over the last couple of games. Back-to-back wins over Aston Villa and Real Madrid have revitalized Arne Slot’s side after a dismal run of six defeats in seven games.
They face another difficult test before the international break though as they face Guardiola’s men, with both sides looking to try and make up some ground on current Premier League leader Arsenal - although City may have suffered a big blow ahead of the game.
Rodri was left out of their matchday squad for Wednesday’s Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund. The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner made his return from injury against Bournemouth at the weekend, having come off the bench after missing the previous four games for his club.
Despite being able to name a 23-man squad in Europe, Guardiola instead elected to name just 22 players against Dortmund, with Rodri the player who didn’t make the cut.
Speaking to TNT Sports ahead of the game, Guardiola revealed his midfielder had suffered a fresh setback - the 29-year-old spent nearly the whole of last season out injured with an ACL injury.
Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola
Pep Guardiola confirmed a setback for Rodri
“He does not feel perfect so that is why he do not take the risk,” Guardiola said.
“He will come back, 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.”
Rodri could therefore be a doubt for Sunday’s game at the Etihad, and his absence would come as a big blow to City, while offering more hope to Liverpool.
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The Reds are already without their share of big-name players, with both Jeremie Frimpong and Giovanni Leoni out injured, while goalkeeper Alisson Becker is not yet expected to make his return.
Alexander Isak could make his comeback, although Slot has already confirmed he won’t be fit enough to start. Liverpool’s record signing has been included in Sweden’s squad for the upcoming international break, which would suggest he is ready to return to action.
Liverpool.com says: You don't need us to explain why facing Manchester City without Rodri would be a much more appealing prospect for Liverpool than if he was playing. We'll wait and see whether he is fit for Sunday's game, although it does look like a place on the bench might be the best he and Guardiola can hope for.