Man City receives a major boost as Pep Guardiola confirms Rodri and Phil Foden are ready to play after missing the opening match, promising important reinforcements for the upcoming clash with Tottenham.
Manchester City started the new Premier League season with a 4-0 victory over Wolves despite missing key players Rodri and Phil Foden. Ahead of the second round, coach Pep Guardiola confirmed both have regained peak fitness to return to the lineup in the match against Tottenham on Saturday. “Rodri and Phil missed the last game due to lack of match rhythm, but now they are ready”Pep emphasized during the press conference.
Rodri’s return is especially significant since the Spanish midfielder suffered a cruciate ligament injury that troubled Man City throughout last season. He only made his comeback at the FIFA Club World Cup in June but has yet to regain full consistency. Pep Guardiola expressed his hopes:
“I just want Rodri to maintain consistency. No one doubts his quality. At this moment, Rodri remains the best player in the world. The Ballon d’Or will have a new winner this year, but in my eyes, he is still number one”.
Regarding Phil Foden, Guardiola believes the English midfielder will regain his form after a disappointing season caused by injury and fatigue. The Spanish coach praised:
“Phil is a top-class, extraordinary player. I always want him to be happy when playing again. Last season was the first time things dipped a bit, but Phil has been incredibly consistent and remarkable for many years. This is what we want to see again”.
Besides the joy from Rodri, Foden, and Ederson, Man City still lacks Josko Gvardiol, Mateo Kovacic, and Savinho. The trio Manuel Akanji, Nathan Ake, and Savinho are also rumored to possibly leave Etihad before the transfer window closes on September 1. Pep admitted: “Honestly, I don’t know what is happening with some players – who will come, who will stay, who will leave. Agents, clubs, and players all have their own opinions, and we will have to wait and see”.
While The Citizens are busy with returns and squad changes, their opponents Tottenham have had a flying start. New coach Thomas Frank had a perfect debut as Spurs beat Burnley 3-0, thanks to a brace from Richarlison. Pep showed special respect for his counterpart: “I have no doubts about Thomas. He did extraordinary work at Brentford and I believe he will succeed at a big club”.
With key players back, Man City is expected to maintain stability in their quest for the title. The combination of Rodri and Foden not only strengthens the midfield but also boosts The Citizens’ confidence ahead of the challenge posed by Tottenham.