Manchester City will be without key midfield enforcer Rodri and defender Ruben Dias for Wednesday's Premier League match at Burnley, manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed. Rodri suffered a groin injury during Sunday's 2-1 victory over Arsenal, while Dias remains sidelined with a hamstring problem sustained in the Champions League against Real Madrid.
Guardiola revealed that scans on Rodri's injury were not serious but the Spaniard will not recover in time for the Turf Moor fixture. The midfielder's availability for Saturday's FA Cup semi-final against Southampton could be in doubt. 'I think he will not be ready for tomorrow and we will see for the next games,' Guardiola said. 'Maybe the semi-final with Southampton or in 12 or 13 days against Everton.'
Dias, who has been out since mid-April with a hamstring issue, is also not yet fit to return. Fellow centre-back Josko Gvardiol remains sidelined after breaking his leg. The absences leave City's defensive options limited as they look to leapfrog Arsenal at the top of the table with a win at Burnley.
Rodri has started each of City's last 11 league games and was instrumental in the win over Arsenal. Guardiola praised the 27-year-old's experience: 'Both Rodri and Bernardo Silva have been really important. They have personality and know how these games must be played.'
The City boss acknowledged the challenge posed by Burnley, who face relegation if they lose. 'We cannot lose focus,' Guardiola warned. 'Arsenal are top and right now they would be champions. Our recovery time is short, but we know what is at stake.'
