Rodri set to sit out FA Cup tie against Southampton as Manchester City and Pep Guardiola eye end-of-season surge

The 29-year-old midfielder, absent for more than seven months following a cruciate ligament rupture in 2024 and hampered by various knee and hamstring issues this campaign, was substituted during Manchester City's 2-1 triumph against Arsenal last Sunday.

He was absent for City's narrow 1-0 victory over Burnley midweek, a outcome that lifted Guardiola's team to the pinnacle of the Premier League standings, surpassing Arsenal based on goals netted.

"He's improving," Guardiola informed journalists, yet stressed that the team would avoid hastening the return of the 2024 Ballon d'Or recipient to competitive action.

"We do not wish to gamble, since if he picks up another injury and we are without him for the upcoming five matches. Rodri holds immense value."

Guardiola highlighted the importance of squad rotation and player recuperation during the season's concluding phase, with City targeting both the Premier League championship and the FA Cup to achieve a domestic treble, after securing the League Cup earlier this month.

"The clash with Arsenal proved incredibly taxing, particularly on an emotional level... the supporters were utterly drained, and they endured lengthy train journeys," the coach explained.

"It helps that we boast a substantial squad barring Ruben Dias, Rodri and Josko Gvardiol, with everyone else available. Naturally, it feels like the final push.

"The key issue revolves around whether they can manage a full 90 minutes tomorrow or potentially extra time, given how many players carry heavy minute loads in their legs. That remains the main concern."

Guardiola indicated that his players are delighted to lead the charge for their seventh Premier League success since the 2017/18 term, although their priority lies with the weekend encounter versus Southampton.

"They feel content. Those with limited minutes are less so. Our sole focus is the match ahead," he added.

"Tomorrow promises to be an exceptional occasion. Countless ideas swirling around. I still have everything in my head and we shall discover more then."