Manchester City have been handed a timely double boost regarding Erling Haaland and Rodri’s fitness. Both players are set to feature when the Sky Blues face Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
The pair’s return provides a huge lift for Pep Guardiola, whose side have been navigating a period of patchy form amid a congested fixture schedule.
Haaland, who sustained a minor injury after colliding with a post during City’s clash with Aston Villa, missed the midweek Carabao Cup win over Swansea. However, Guardiola has now confirmed that his star striker will be fit and available for selection.
Haaland’s absence at Swansea was initially a concern for fans, though it later emerged the decision was precautionary.
The Norwegian forward, who remains the club’s leading scorer this season, is expected to spearhead the attack once again as City look to continue their pursuit of Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Guardiola provided the encouraging news that both Haaland and midfielder Rodri are ready to return to action.
“I think he will be ready to help us, I don’t know if from the beginning but hopefully he can be with us,” Guardiola said, referring to Rodri’s potential involvement against Bournemouth.
Erling Haaland and Rodri’s fitness comes as a relief following fears that their injury problems might sideline them again. Haalnd, known for his physical intensity and relentless scoring form, has been instrumental for City this season.
Guardiola admitted that resting him for the Carabao Cup tie was always part of the plan, even without the minor knock he sustained.
Meanwhile, Rodri’s recovery marks another key boost for the defending champions. The Spanish international has endured a stop-start campaign, struggling for consistent rhythm due to injury setbacks and rotation.
After returning to full training this week, the 29-year-old is expected to at least make the matchday squad. Guardiola and his staff, however, are cautious not to rush him back into heavy minutes.
The City boss noted the importance of managing Rodri’s workload carefully, especially given his crucial role as the team’s midfield anchor.
The Spaniard’s absence in recent matches had been noticeable, with City lacking their usual composure and control in the centre of the pitch. His return could therefore be decisive as the champions seek to maintain momentum heading into a demanding stretch of fixtures.
City’s squad slowly returning to full strength
Beyond the headline Erling Haaland and Rodri’s fitness, there were additional positives for Guardiola’s side during their midweek trip to South Wales.
Manchester City welcomed back several players from injury, including Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Rayan Aït-Nouri, all of whom started in the Carabao Cup victory over Swansea.
The return of these players adds depth to a squad that has been stretched in recent weeks due to fitness concerns and fixture congestion.
One player still being monitored closely is Mateo Kovacic. The Croatian midfielder missed the Swansea clash and remains “not fully fit,” according to Guardiola.
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Kovacic, who underwent Achilles surgery during the summer, has yet to start a competitive match for City this season. His gradual reintegration into the squad is being handled with caution as the club aims to avoid further setbacks.
Guardiola expressed satisfaction at the improving injury situation but emphasised the importance of maintaining balance and patience as players continue to regain full fitness.
Sunday’s encounter at the Etihad represents a significant opportunity for Manchester City to reassert their dominance after a series of uneven performances.
The Sky Blues have shown flashes of brilliance but have also been guilty of lapses that have cost them valuable points. With two of their most influential players back in contention, Guardiola will hope his side can find renewed consistency and composure.
