Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has called for patience with midfielder Rodri, as the Spain international continues to battle a series of injury setbacks. Rodri, who won the Ballon d'Or, has struggled to regain full fitness since undergoing knee surgery that sidelined him for a significant portion of the previous season.

The 29-year-old has only started in six games this season and recently tweaked his hamstring during City's 1-0 victory over Brentford before the October international break. This injury caused him to miss four games, but he made a late substitute appearance in the 3-1 win against Bournemouth last weekend. Guardiola chose to leave Rodri out of the squad for Wednesday's 4-1 Champions League win against Borussia Dortmund, and his availability for Sunday's Premier League match against Liverpool remains uncertain.

Speaking at a press conference on Friday, Guardiola emphasized the importance of not rushing Rodri back into action before he is fully fit. "We will see tomorrow, but I think we will not take the risk ahead of the international break," Guardiola stated. "We have to find the moment he feels strong and fit to sustain the actions in the game properly." He acknowledged that Rodri's absence is a significant loss for the team, saying, "Still we are playing without the Ballon d'Or winner of two seasons ago and a massively important player for us."

Guardiola highlighted the need to focus on the long term, noting that "the best part of the season is ahead of us and we need him." He expressed confidence that Rodri would return to his best form, saying, "I'm 100 per cent convinced he will be back and will play." However, he stressed the importance of ensuring Rodri is completely ready, stating, "I don't want him back if, after a while, he has to make a little bit step back."

In Rodri's absence, Nico Gonzalez is expected to continue in the defensive midfield role. Guardiola has been impressed with Gonzalez's development, saying he is "becoming a really good, important player."

Apart from Rodri, Mateo Kovacic is also sidelined with an ankle/heel injury. Guardiola did not specify a return date for Kovacic, stating he would be out for "a while".

Guardiola's cautious approach reflects the club's desire to avoid further setbacks for Rodri, who has been a key player in their recent success. The manager is prioritizing Rodri's long-term fitness over short-term gains, hoping he will be ready to contribute fully during the crucial stages of the season.