Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has offered fresh insight into Rodri's ongoing recovery, with the influential midfielder still battling injury issues that have plagued him over the past two campaigns. The Spaniard's absence has dealt a significant blow to City's title ambitions, leaving a noticeable void in midfield control that was glaringly exposed during Monday night's thrilling 3-3 draw against Everton—a result that now leaves the Premier League title race out of City's hands.

When asked whether Rodri could return before the season's end, Guardiola responded cautiously: "Yeah, I hope so. Yesterday he started to make partial training and today we'll see." Earlier in the day, the Catalan boss had hinted at a potential comeback against Brentford this weekend, stating, "We have survived without him for many, many months. He still doesn't feel completely comfortable. He will be ready and fit and come back, we will see this afternoon or tomorrow."

However, with Rodri only just easing back into partial training and Guardiola's tone shifting to hopeful rather than certain, it appears the midfielder's return may not be as imminent as first thought. Despite his unavailability, the 27-year-old has remained a vital presence within the squad, traveling with the team and offering support from the dressing room.

Guardiola praised Rodri's ongoing involvement, adding: "Yeah, it's top. Ruben (Dias) came and Josko (Gvardiol) came for the Everton game. We talked. So now the season is done. In terms of it's a good season not a bad season already, but everybody can help to finish in the best way. We have the FA Cup final in front of us in one week's time, in eight days. And in the Premier League as well. We have to do what we have to do, and we'll do it."

As City gear up for a crucial run-in that includes both Premier League fixtures and an FA Cup final, all eyes will be on Rodri's fitness—and whether the midfield maestro can lace up his boots in time to make a difference on the pitch.