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With the 2024/25 Premier League season getting underway, we are poised to witness a mouthwatering clash between Manchester City and Chelsea on Sunday. The Cityzens will look to retain their Premier League title, while Chelsea begin a new chapter under Enzo Maresca.
Pep Guardiola's side have been dealt a huge blow with defensive midfielder Rodri missing the much-anticipated clash. Speaking to reporters at City's press conference ahead of the match against Chelsea, Guardiola stated (via Sam Lee of The Athletic):
"Rodri is not in the squad for the game this weekend. No chance."
The tactically gifted midfielder injured his hamstring while helping Spain beat England at the Euro 2024 final on July 14. He has not attended a training session in the build-up to the season-opener against the Blues.
Guardiola added:
"🔵⛔️ Rodri will miss Chelsea vs Man City game. He had zero training sessions with us, he’s not ready."
Rodri was instrumental last year with his performances in crucial moments of the season, helping Manchester City in their title defense. He also chipped in with crucial goals in their nervy title race with Arsenal, with City eventually winning the league title.
Guardiola now faces a challenge when it comes to picking the perfect replacement for Rodri, who operates in the deeper midfield role for City.
Manchester City forward Oscar Bobb will also miss the opening game vs Chelsea, confirms Guardiola
Rodri will not be the only player missing the game against Chelsea. Highly-rated winger Oscar Bobb has also been sidelined after breaking his leg during training.
Guardiola has confirmed that Bobb will now spend four months on the treatment table. The Manchester City boss added that the Norwegian will also undergo surgery (via Sam Lee of The Athletic):
"Bobb is having surgery this afternoon and they hope he will be back in 3-4 months"
Bobb was a key figure in Manchester City's Community Shield victory over Manchester United, which earned them their first silverware of the season. He was instrumental in the equalizer scored by Bernardo Silva, whose goal forced the match into penalties, which City won 7-6.
Following his promising season last year, where he showcased glimpses of what he can offer, Bobb was looking to be a regular under Guardiola's plans this term.
Guardiola could dive into the transfer market to replace his depleted side. Having sold striker Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid for €95.6m, the Manchester City head coach will be looking for replacements, with the club's budget in mind.
