Rodri’s availability for Manchester City’s upcoming FA Cup match against Huddersfield is uncertain due to a recent family loss.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has emphasized the need for patience regarding the return of star midfielder Kevin De Bruyne. De Bruyne has been sidelined since the summer due to injury, and Guardiola is keen to ensure that he is fully recovered before rushing him back into action. Speaking about De Bruyne’s progress, Guardiola stated, “Kevin was out for a long time so we have to be patient. They are ready, the last two or three training sessions with us.”

In addition to De Bruyne, Guardiola provided updates on the fitness of Jeremy Doku and Erling Haaland. Doku, who has been out since early December, is said to be feeling “really good,” while Haaland, who has been sidelined since December 6 with a foot injury, is also showing signs of improvement. Although the FA Cup clash with Huddersfield may come too soon for the trio, there is hope that they could feature in the Premier League match against Newcastle on January 13.

However, Guardiola also revealed that City could be without midfielder Rodri for the FA Cup clash following the death of his grandmother. Rodri has returned to Spain to be with his family, and Guardiola confirmed that the player would be given all the time he needs. Guardiola stated, “Hopefully he will come back for the game but, if he needs to stay, family issues are the most important thing.”

In addition to the injury updates, Guardiola also mentioned that several players, including Bernardo Silva, Kalvin Phillips, Matheus Nunes, and Scott Carson, have been affected by a sickness bug. Meanwhile, defender John Stones is training alone as he works towards a full recovery.

Looking ahead to the upcoming match against Newcastle United, Guardiola highlighted that the game will be broadcast live on TNT Sports. The match is scheduled for January 13, with coverage starting at 16:45 and kick-off at 17:30. Fans can subscribe to TNT Sports through various TV platforms such as BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media. To find local establishments showing TNT Sports, fans can use the Pub Finder tool.