Guardiola Provides Rodri Fitness Update and Stones Tribute Ahead of Everton Clash

Pep Guardiola's dry wit was on full display when asked why he chose to attend a League One fixture between Stockport County and Port Vale rather than watching the Champions League semi-finals live. "The managers aren't good, Luis Enrique and Vincent Kompany, really, really shit players," the Manchester City boss quipped with trademark sarcasm, referencing two elite tacticians who were world-class players in their day.

The reality? Guardiola caught the PSG-Bayern Munich 5-4 thriller on television later that evening—wine in hand, result already known. It's vintage Guardiola, and the humour carried a sincere point: his genuine appreciation for English football extends far beyond the Premier League's top tier.

Rodri's Return Could Shift Title Race Dynamics

Beyond the laughs, Guardiola's pre-match media session delivered critical fitness updates ahead of Monday's trip to Everton. Rodri, Ruben Dias, and Josko Gvardiol are all progressing in their recovery, though the manager remained characteristically coy about the Spanish midfielder's immediate availability.

"He still hasn't trained with us, so we'll see in the next few days. Will he be ready for Everton? I always have confidence," Guardiola stated, leaving the door open without making promises.

Rodri's potential return represents a massive boost for City's faltering title challenge. His prolonged absence has been costly this campaign, and having him available would substantially improve City's chances in precisely the type of tricky away fixture that Everton presents.

Guardiola Pays Tribute to Departing Stones

Addressing John Stones' impending summer departure, Guardiola spoke with unusual warmth about a player leaving the club. "He was one of my first signings," the Catalan recalled, remembering a trip to London to meet Stones at his brother's residence when recruiting the defender.

Guardiola went further, declaring Stones "by far the best player" in the Champions League final victory in Istanbul—a perspective often overshadowed in broader Treble discussions but one that stands up to scrutiny.

No Sympathy for Fixture Complaints

Guardiola took aim at managers who complain about congested schedules, specifically referencing PSG's postponed Ligue 1 matches. "If you don't like it, go coach in France or Portugal," he said bluntly, maintaining a stance he's held since his Barcelona tenure.

With European commitments no longer a factor, City's schedule has lightened considerably. Guardiola acknowledged using the extra time to scout upcoming opponents, praising Brentford's recent performance at Old Trafford despite their defeat.

He also mentioned potentially watching Arsenal face Fulham on Saturday evening if training wraps up in time—a match that could see the Gunners extend their advantage at the top. While Guardiola publicly downplayed the significance—"at this stage of the season, it doesn't change anything"—the difference between trailing by two points versus five is substantial for any pursuing side.

Everton Presents Another Final

Looking ahead to Monday's encounter, Guardiola expects a battle against David Moyes' rejuvenated Everton squad. Playing at their new stadium with European qualification within reach, the Toffees possess both motivation and momentum.

"Another final for us," Guardiola acknowledged. He admitted he'll miss the atmosphere at Goodison Park, but nostalgia won't earn Manchester City the three points they desperately need.