Manchester City’s nine-match winning streak was abruptly ended on Sunday as they lost 1-0 to Aston Villa at Villa Park. Despite controlling possession and opportunities, Pep Guardiola’s team was unable to equalise thanks to Matty Cash’s goal in the 19th minute.
The Premier League winners’ poor afternoon was made worse by Erling Haaland’s uncommon off day in front of goal. Despite the disappointing outcome, attention soon turned to fitness issues in preparation for City’s forthcoming away Carabao Cup match against Swansea City.
Due to injuries to numerous important players, including Rodri and Abdukodir Khusanov, Guardiola has had to deal with a challenging time.
The good news is that Nico Gonzalez has recovered from a small injury and made his comeback against Villa by coming off the bench. But Rodri’s absence—a crucial component of Guardiola’s midfield apparatus—remains a serious issue.
Guardiola issues squad rotation update ahead of Swansea trip
Regarding the summer acquisition of Ait-Nouri, the left-back is fit to play against Swansea but hasn’t participated in any of Man City’s past ten games due to an ankle issue. He was also left out of the matchday squad against Aston Villa. Guardiola stated, “[Khusanov] is ready to play a few minutes tomorrow,” and then added, “[Ait-Nouri] is ready.” He is available, fit, and ready.
Due to a hamstring injury he suffered during a Premier League victory at Brentford prior to October’s international break, the key Spaniard has missed Man City’s previous three games. Guardiola stated, “Rodri is still not ready.”
“Getting better, training with us partially, but of course, after what happened twice with his muscular injuries, we’re going to see how he evolves this week, I would say.” When asked when Rodri might return, Guardiola said succinctly, “No. Not yet, but hopefully soon.”
Rico Lewis, Mateo Kovacic, Nico Gonzalez, and Rodri will all compete for a start in a deep-lying midfield position. Guardiola has announced that midfielder Kalvin Phillips will not start on Wednesday, despite the fact that he will travel to Swansea with City’s senior team.
