Pep Guardiola issues warning about Rodri and Ruben Dias: “Only victory matters against Everton!”
The Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, provided a crucial update on the physical condition of Rodri and Ruben Dias on Friday, at a decisive moment in the Premier League season. In statements to the press, the Spanish coach admitted that Rodri is recovering well from his groin injury but emphasized that it is still premature to guarantee his presence in City’s trip to Everton, scheduled for this Monday, a bank holiday.
Rodri, the Spanish midfielder who won the Ballon d’Or in 2024, has not played since the clash against Arsenal, where he sustained the injury that kept him out of the matches against Burnley and Southampton, the latter being in the FA Cup semi-final. Guardiola was cautious but optimistic: “He is improving. He hasn’t trained with the team yet; we’ll see in the coming days. I’m always confident.”
As for Ruben Dias, who has been sidelined since mid-March due to a thigh injury, Guardiola indicated that the central defender has not yet joined the group training. “Ruben is still not with the team. He, Josko Gvardiol, and Rodri are progressing in their recovery,” added the coach, also referring to the Croatian defender who remains out for the long term.
Manchester City is preparing for an unprecedented visit to Everton’s new stadium, the Hill Dickinson Stadium – a challenge that Guardiola does not underestimate. Under the leadership of David Moyes, the Toffees have had a surprising season and continue to fight for a place in European competitions. The City coach warned that the opponent will present a solid defense and that the team will need to be at their best to secure the three points.
“Everton has always been a difficult opponent,” Pep commented. “The old stadium had a very British atmosphere that I appreciated, but in the new stadium they defend very well and have been tough to beat. In recent weeks, they have had very good results and are fighting for a place in Europe.”
With Arsenal now three points ahead in the title race and playing before City, Guardiola made it clear that only victory matters to maintain pressure on the leaders: “We can only think about winning, winning, and winning. There is no other option.”
This clash promises to be decisive in an electrifying championship finale, where every point counts for Manchester City’s aspirations. Fans are called to support the team towards another victory that could be crucial in the title race.
In addition, for fans who want to fully experience the end of the season, hospitality packages are available for the decisive match between City and Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium, on a day that promises to be historic and full of emotions.
Get ready for an explosive showdown at Hill Dickinson Stadium – Manchester City will not make it easy, and Pep Guardiola makes it clear: only victory matters!
This article first appeared on Apito Final.
Discover more from Apito Final
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
