Pep Guardiola welcomes back a key player at Manchester City for the crucial Champions League qualifier against Bournemouth.
Pep Guardiola is enduring one of his most challenging seasons at Manchester City, having suffered the worst losing streak of his managerial career and failing to secure any major trophies. With qualification for the next UEFA Champions League still on the line, the Spanish coach is set to receive a massive boost ahead of a decisive clash against Bournemouth.
City will host the Cherries at the Etihad Stadium on Matchday 37 of the 2024–25 Premier League season. Guardiola’s side currently sits sixth in the table and controls its own destiny—they’ll book their spot in Europe’s top competition if they manage two wins. Helping their cause is the return of a key player.
Spanish midfielder Rodri has been cleared to return to action after recovering from a long-term injury. The Ballon d’Or winner suffered a torn ACL in September during a match against Arsenal and is now set to return after eight months on the sidelines.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Guardiola expressed cautious optimism about Rodri’s availability: “We’ll see. Some players are better, and Rodri’s even better day by day. Yeah, we’ll see.”
Rodri’s return comes at a critical time
Rodri’s absence has been deeply felt. Since his injury, Manchester City’s form dipped dramatically, and their midfield control has lacked consistency. While he’ll be starting on the bench against Bournemouth, even limited minutes from the Spanish international could offer a big lift.
Beyond their final Premier League fixtures—against Bournemouth and Fulham—City is also preparing for the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Having Rodri back to full fitness could be crucial for their ambitions on the international stage.
Guardiola confident in Champions League qualification
Manchester City is currently one point ahead of Newcastle United, who sit third, and—crucially—the Citizens have two matches remaining. Two wins would guarantee Champions League qualification, and Guardiola made it clear he believes they’ll get the job done.
“Of course it’s important. We have been in for the last 14 or 15 years and it is where we want to be, but if we are not there it is because we don’t deserve it, and we will play the Europa League. But I’m thinking we’re going to qualify. I control my mind and I think that. The first step is to finish in third position in the Premier League and that is the main target,” he said before assuring he’s absolutely convinced that the team will qualify.
