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Guardiola Puts Rodri’s FA Cup Involvement in Doubt, Backs His World Cup Availability

The update signals a recovery-first approach to keep Spain’s Ballon d’Or winner ready for the summer tournament.

Overview

  • Following Wednesday's 3-0 win over Crystal Palace, Pep Guardiola said he does not know if Rodri will be fit to face Chelsea in Saturday's FA Cup final.
  • Rodri has missed recent matchday squads after a late‑April calf or groin problem picked up near the end of Manchester City’s 2-1 win over Arsenal.
  • Guardiola said City can cope in midfield and pointed to Mateo Kovacic, Nico Gonzalez and Bernardo Silva as reliable options during Rodri’s absence.
  • Nico Gonzalez was left out against Crystal Palace for selection reasons, and Guardiola said he is fine and available to be picked for Wembley.
  • Guardiola expressed confidence that City will take care of Rodri so he can play for Spain at the World Cup, easing national-team concerns even as his club status remains uncertain.