Pep Guardiola confirms huge Man City injury blow before Chelsea clash

Pep Guardiola has confirmed Manchester City will be without midfielder Rodri for their Premier League opener against Chelsea on Sunday.

Rodri picked up what looked like a knee injury in Spain’s Euro 2024 final victory over England and was forced off the field at half-time.

Guardiola confirmed in his pre-match press conference that Rodri is not yet back in team training, ruling the 28-year-old out of the Chelsea game in the process.

“He didn’t train,” Guardiola revealed. “I didn’t see him yet. I think he feels good, but we will see when he starts to move his body how he feels.”

Asked to rate Rodri’s chances of facing Chelsea, Guardiola bluntly responded: “No chance.”

Rodri is not the only injury blow for City, who confirmed that young winger Oscar Bobb’s potential breakout season has been disrupted by a nasty leg fracture.

“It was in the training session and unfortunately he had a big impact and is injured,” Guardiola revealed.

“He will have surgery and hopefully he will be well and we welcome him back as soon as possible in three, four months.

“We are so sad for him, but not because he was making an incredible pre-season, because that doesn’t matter, when [the] injury is a long time it is a problem and we’re looking forward to seeing him again as soon as possible.

“A good recovery as quick as possible and that’s all.”