Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that star midfielder Rodri will miss their Premier League opener against Chelsea on Sunday.
Rodri, a pivotal player for City, was instrumental last season, with the team remaining unbeaten in league matches he participated in, highlighting his critical role.
Guardiola’s announcement is seen as a potential advantage for Chelsea, managed by Enzo Maresca.
In his pre-match press conference, Guardiola provided updates on his squad’s fitness, noting that players who participated in the European Championships, such as Kyle Walker, John Stones, and Phil Foden, have only had a few training sessions but are expected to be fit for the game.
Guardiola remarked, “I don’t know… Just two or three training sessions.
They arrived fit, in good shape. Today, in the professional world, the players take care of themselves even on holidays.”
Regarding Rodri, Guardiola confirmed that he is not in contention, stating, “He had zero training sessions with us; he’s not ready.”
Chelsea will host Manchester City at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, August 18, marking the start of their Premier League campaigns.
