Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has provided an injury update on key players Phil Foden and Rodri ahead of their Premier League match against West Ham United at the London Stadium. The champions are looking to extend their winning streak in the league to three games.
Guardiola revealed that star player Phil Foden is a doubt for the upcoming match due to illness. The young Englishman was instrumental in City's last encounter with West Ham, scoring twice on the final day of the 2023/24 season. However, he may miss out this weekend after being unavailable for last week’s win over Ipswich due to illness.
City's record against West Ham is impressive; they have won 14 out of their 16 league encounters with the Hammers. But without Foden’s attacking prowess, they might face a tougher challenge this time around.
Positive news for Rodri and Kovacic
While there was disappointing news regarding Foden, Guardiola delivered more encouraging updates about midfielders Rodri and Mateo Kovacic.
Rodri has been sidelined since suffering a leg injury during Euro 2024 final seven weeks ago but returned to training this week. Despite his return to fitness though, it seems unlikely that he will start against West Ham given his lengthy absence from competitive football.
Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, said:
“Rodri is much better. Kova as well. Phil still doesn’t feel good. The rest are okay,”
On another positive note for Manchester City fans, ex-Chelsea man Mateo Kovacic could be fit enough to play after recovering from an injury sustained in a collision with Liam Delap during their victory over Ipswich. If fit enough, he could deputise at the base of midfield once again if Rodri isn't ready for action yet.
Aaron Cresswell out for West Ham
Meanwhile on the other side of things at West Ham, the only notable absentee is left-back Aaron Cresswell. He sustained a hamstring injury during the warm-up ahead of their midweek Carabao Cup victory against Bournemouth.
Julen Lopetegui, West Ham manager, said:
“It was a pity because he was working very hard to have this chance and unfortunately he suffered his injury, we don’t know exactly how long he will be out, but we will wait for the medical test tomorrow or the day after to know more.”
As Manchester City prepares for their trip to London Stadium, they will be hoping to continue their winning start to the season despite potential absences. The updates on Rodri and Kovacic provide some relief amidst Foden's uncertain situation. However, with or without these key players, Guardiola's side will undoubtedly put up a strong fight against West Ham this weekend.
