As Manchester City prepare for tonight's crucial Premier League showdown against Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, one question looms larger than any other: Is Rodri fit to play?
Pep Guardiola's side faces a must-win scenario if they hope to keep the pressure on league leaders Arsenal. The Gunners currently sit six points clear at the summit, though City hold two games in hand. Every point matters in this title race, making tonight's fixture a pivotal moment in the season.
The uncertainty surrounding Rodri's availability casts a shadow over City's preparations. The midfield maestro hasn't trained with the squad since suffering a calf injury during City's dramatic 2-1 victory over Arsenal just over two weeks ago. That win came at a cost, as Rodri was forced off in the closing stages and has since missed convincing victories against Burnley and Southampton.
Guardiola confirmed on Friday that Rodri had yet to return to full training, and images released on mancity.com yesterday showed the Spanish international absent from team drills. Given his previous struggles to regain fitness earlier this season, City have understandably taken a cautious approach. However, with the title race heating up, his absence would be keenly felt.
Fortunately for City, options exist if Rodri is ruled out. Bernardo Silva is a certainty to start in midfield, while the battle to partner him is between two in-form candidates. Nico Gonzalez will be brimming with confidence after his heroics in last weekend's FA Cup semi-final, where he not only impressed but scored a dramatic last-minute winner against Southampton. Mateo Kovacic, meanwhile, showed his injury troubles are firmly behind him during his 58-minute cameo at Wembley. Both players offer different qualities, and either could step into Rodri's shoes if called upon.
As kickoff approaches, all eyes will be on the team sheet. Rodri's fitness remains the biggest selection question for City, and the answer could have major implications for the title race. For now, Guardiola and his staff are keeping their cards close to their chest.