Pep Guardiola can’t hide his excitement for Manchester City’s huge Premier League clash with Liverpool — but the Spaniard has also admitted a major injury worry that could shape Sunday’s title showdown.
City cruised to a 4-1 win over Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League midweek, thanks to goals from Phil Foden, Erling Haaland, and Rayan Cherki.
But while the scoreboard looked comfortable, Guardiola’s lineup told another story — one missing the heartbeat of his midfield.
Rodri was left out entirely, with Guardiola revealing the decision was made out of caution. “He doesn’t feel perfect so that is why we don’t take a risk,” he told TNT Sports.
“A bit more time to feel good and play football, it doesn’t matter good or bad, knowing that it is fine and he will not be out for a while.”
That line may sound reassuring, but with Liverpool up next, Pep Guardiola knows he needs his midfield general firing. The City boss openly admitted he is “desperate” to face Liverpool again — a matchup that always delivers drama.
The Pep Guardiola dilemma: Full-strength City or midfield crisis?
Rodri’s absence comes at a time when City’s midfield depth is already stretched. Mateo Kovacic remains out long-term with an ankle injury, leaving Guardiola to rely on 18-year-old Nico González in midweek.
The Spaniard’s faith in youth worked against Dortmund — but Liverpool’s pressing and pace will be a very different test. Guardiola didn’t hide his admiration for Arne Slot’s Liverpool either, praising their energy and style while acknowledging how tough they’ll be to beat.
“Listen, it is a top, top team,” Guardiola said after City’s Champions League win. “Anfield is Anfield. In 10 years I’ve won there just once. Of course, it’s a surprise that they lose a lot of games in a row, but it’s football. The season is long. We will see what happens.”
Still, the City boss insists he can’t wait for the rematch: “I’m looking forward, desperately, to play again on Sunday against Liverpool.”
Man City Injuries and Possible Return Dates
| Player | Injury | Details | Possible Return |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rodri | Fitness issue | Missed Dortmund game after minor setback post-hamstring injury. | Liverpool (H) – Nov 9 |
| Mateo Kovacic | Ankle injury | Long-term absence due to ankle calcification after surgery. | February 2026 |
Liverpool, meanwhile, will be watching closely. Without Rodri, City’s rhythm often falters — a fact Reds fans will remember from last season when the midfielder’s suspension coincided with rare City slips.
For Guardiola, it’s a delicate balance between “not taking a risk” and “not losing control.” With the Premier League table tightening, one missing cog could change everything.
So, while Guardiola may be “desperate” to face Liverpool, it’s his midfield options that might just keep him up at night before Sunday’s showdown.