With and without Rodri, Manchester City is simply not the same team—at least, that’s Pep Guardiola’s firm belief. The Manchester City manager has repeatedly emphasized the importance of the reliable midfielder to the team’s play, and it has been evident just how much they suffer without him. So much so that City is now only competing on one front for silverware: the FA Cup, where they host Plymouth in the Round of 16 at 18:45. It’s almost certain that the “tide” from the south won’t flood the Etihad pitch—Plymouth is too weak of a team to pose a real challenge and pull off an upset in Manchester, despite already pulling off two surprises in the tournament. However, at least City fans have something to look forward to.Back at home for some #FACup action 🏆#ManCity pic.twitter.com/hqzkvGfpri— Manchester City (@ManCity) March 1, 2025 Rodri, who last played on September 22 against Arsenal, when he suffered an ACL injury, has started training again. While there’s no official return date yet, this is an encouraging sign that he could be back soon. Since Rodri—who won the Ballon d’Or for the world’s best footballer due to his performances last season—has been out, City has suffered a significant drop. They are currently fourth in the Premier League, 20 points behind leaders Liverpool. They have been eliminated from both the League Cup and the Champions League, making the FA Cup their last chance to salvage the season.”The most important thing for Rodri is to recover properly. He feels good, we’re taking it step by step, and we’ll see” Guardiola said.On the road to recovery 💪 pic.twitter.com/WovR8p6417— Manchester City (@ManCity) February 28, 2025 Rodri recently spoke about his injury and recovery, acknowledging that the worst part is behind him.”I always emphasize that this is part of life. Injuries happen, and athletes are used to these things. I’m essentially a positive person, and I accept things as they are. I’m grateful to God for everything, and in times like these, I try to stay positive. I even used this time to do things I wasn’t used to, spend more time with my family, and strengthen other parts of my body so I can come back even stronger” the City midfielder said.Julian Alvarez reveals the crucial reason why he left Man City for Atletico MadridErling Haaland is also expected to be fit for the Plymouth match. The Norwegian striker, who had been dealing with some fitness issues, secured City’s 1-0 win over Tottenham in London. His second goal in that game was celebrated passionately by young James McAtee, something that left a strong impression on Guardiola.”I liked how McAtee celebrated Haaland’s goal, even though it was disallowed. I love seeing that in players. Or when John Stones celebrated Kevin De Bruyne’s goal against Leyton Orient. He has played at the World Cup, the Euros, won everything, and still celebrated like that. When I see that kind of reaction, I realize that these players truly love playing for this club,” Guardiola said, adding that it shows the team is committed to achieving the best possible result in the FA Cup.Guardiola urges De Bruyne to be like THIS former Man City playerRecently, there have been questions about Guardiola’s relationship with Jack Grealish. However, the Spanish manager insisted he never doubted Grealish’s quality—only his ability to stay fit, as injuries have significantly hampered him since joining City.”I don’t know if he’ll be ready for this match, which requires a high physical level. That’s the question mark. Look, he played very well against Leyton Orient, then started against Real Madrid. That match wasn’t a friendly, and after 20 minutes, he got injured. It’s happened several times this season. The reason Jack hasn’t played more is because he physically wasn’t able to. He had those bruises. I’ve never doubted his quality, but the issue is that he can’t play three matches in a row. That’s the only question mark—there’s nothing else,” Guardiola assured.There is some special bond with Manchester City and ArgentiniansCity will be without John Stones, Manuel Akanji, Rodri, and Oscar Bobb, while 19-year-old Claudio Echeverri is doubtful. There’s a good chance we’ll see Abdukodir Khusanov, Nico González, Omar Marmoush, and Vítor Reis on the pitch, with Stefan Ortega expected to start in goal. Guardiola may also give a chance to Nico O’Reilly, who has featured in two cup matches.FA CUP – ROUND OF 16Friday Aston Villa – Cardiff 2-0 (0-0)/Asensio 68, 80/Saturday 15.15: (1.35) Crystal Palace (4.80) Millwall (10.0)15.15: (3.60) Preston (3.15) Burnley (2.20)18.00: (1.80) Bournemouth (3.60) Wolverhampton (4.60)20.45: (1.10) Man.City (11.0) Plymouth (18.0)Sunday 16.45: (2.15) Newcastle (3.50) Brighton (3.30)19.30: (2.35) Man.Utd. (3.40) Fulham (3.00)Monday 22.30: (1.75) Nott.Forest (3.60) Ipswich (4.90)***odds are subject to change***
