Rodri Misses Everton, Villarreal Uncertain

Manchester City midfielder Rodri will miss Saturday’s game with Everton after picking up a hamstring problem at Brentford, and manager Pep Guardiola said he does not know when the Ballon d’Or winner will return. Guardiola confirmed Rodri will also miss Tuesday’s trip to Villarreal and cast doubt on his availability for the Premier League visit to Aston Villa, stressing the club will not rush his recovery. Mateo Kovacic is returning from an Achilles operation and is being eased back, expected to play only limited minutes as his fitness is rebuilt. Omar Marmoush made a substitute appearance after injury, while Rayan Ait‑Nouri has resumed training and is “close” to a comeback but remained absent from the matchday squad. Guardiola emphasised caution across the squad as City juggle Premier League, Champions League and domestic cup commitments. The club is managing players with recent injury histories carefully to protect long-term fitness.