As Manchester City prepare for their Monday night clash against Everton, all eyes are on one man: Rodri. The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner's fitness remains the biggest talking point ahead of the Premier League trip to Goodison Park, with Pep Guardiola facing a crucial decision on whether to risk his midfield general.
Rodri has been sidelined since picking up a calf injury during City's 2-1 victory over Arsenal, subsequently missing wins against Burnley and the FA Cup semi-final comeback against Southampton. While Guardiola has reported positive progress in the Spaniard's recovery, City are understandably cautious about rushing back a player whose influence extends far beyond simple passing statistics.
Rodri brings balance, authority, and composure to this City side—qualities that become even more vital in hostile away environments where controlling the tempo can decide the outcome. After a challenging couple of seasons battling injuries, patience feels like the wise approach here. Everton will undoubtedly look to test City's rhythm and physicality, and Guardiola must be certain Rodri is ready for that intensity.
Should Rodri be unavailable, Guardiola has several options, though none quite replicate his unique presence. Nico O'Reilly stepped in alongside departing captain Bernardo Silva against Burnley, while Nico Gonzalez and Mateo Kovacic joined Tijjani Reijnders in a rotated midfield against Southampton.
Gonzalez's late winner at Wembley has certainly strengthened his case for another start. However, O'Reilly has featured regularly in midfield this season, and deploying him there would allow Rayan Ait-Nouri to continue at left-back. Guardiola's decision could therefore shape two areas of the pitch, not just one.
Everton will look to exploit any uncertainty. A passionate Monday night crowd, an aggressive start, and direct running could all test City's reshaped midfield before their passing patterns settle into rhythm.
The injury list doesn't end there for City. Ruben Dias has been absent since the 2-1 Champions League defeat to Real Madrid on March 17 due to an ankle issue, while Josko Gvardiol has been sidelined since suffering a leg fracture against Chelsea on January 4. Both remain unavailable, adding further complexity to Guardiola's team selection for this crucial Premier League encounter.