Guardiola Provides Rodri Fitness Update and Reflects on Stones Ahead of Everton Showdown

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola opened his pre-Everton press conference with characteristic humour, defending his decision to attend a League One fixture between Stockport County and Port Vale rather than watch the Champions League semi-finals live. "The managers aren't good, Luis Enrique and Vincent Kompany, really, really awful players," Guardiola quipped with heavy sarcasm, explaining his choice to watch lower-league football.

He later watched PSG's thrilling 5-4 victory over Bayern Munich — result already known, wine glass in hand. The joke resonated, but his genuine appreciation for all levels of English football shone through.

Rodri's Return Could Shift Title Race Dynamics

The press conference's key takeaway focused on team fitness ahead of Monday's crucial fixture. Rodri, Ruben Dias, and Josko Gvardiol are all progressing in their recovery, though Guardiola remained cautious about the Spanish midfielder's availability. "He hasn't trained with the squad yet, so we'll evaluate over the coming days. Will he feature against Everton? I'm always optimistic," the City boss stated.

Rodri's potential return represents a massive lift for Manchester City's championship aspirations — his extended absence has proven costly throughout the campaign. His presence on the pitch substantially improves City's chances of victory, and Monday's trip to Goodison Park represents precisely the type of fixture that could produce an unexpected result without him anchoring the midfield.

Guardiola Pays Tribute to Departing Stones

Discussing John Stones, who will depart at season's end, Guardiola showed genuine warmth. "He was among my initial signings," the manager recalled, remembering a trip to London where he met Stones at his brother's residence. Guardiola praised him as "easily the best player" in the Champions League final in Istanbul — an assessment often overlooked in the Treble celebrations but defensible upon closer examination.

No Sympathy for Fixture Complaints

Guardiola delivered a pointed criticism of PSG's postponed Ligue 1 matches and the tendency of some managers to complain about congested schedules. "If you can't handle it, go manage in France or Portugal," he remarked. This stance has remained consistent since his Barcelona tenure and shows no indication of changing.

City's European elimination has at least provided additional preparation time. Guardiola spoke positively about Brentford — "they performed admirably" at Old Trafford despite the loss — and mentioned he might watch Arsenal face Fulham on Saturday evening at 5:30pm following training.

An Arsenal victory would increase the pressure on City heading into Monday's fixture. Guardiola downplayed concerns publicly — "at this point in the season, nothing really changes" — but a five-point deficit looks considerably different than a two-point gap when you're the pursuing side.

Everton Clash Promises Intensity

Regarding Monday's opposition, Guardiola anticipates a tough battle. David Moyes' management, a new stadium atmosphere, and a squad with European qualification ambitions and positive momentum present significant challenges. "Another cup final for us," Guardiola acknowledged. While he'll miss the historic Goodison Park, sentiment won't earn three points.