Manchester City’s Rodri and Erling Haaland Doubtful for FA Cup Tie

Manchester City’s Rodri and Erling Haaland are uncertain to play in the club’s upcoming FA Cup third round match against Huddersfield Town.

Rodri’s Absence Due to Personal Loss

Spain midfielder Rodri may miss Sunday’s game following the passing of his grandmother. Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola stated, “Today and tomorrow he will not be here,” as the team prepares for the match. Manchester City won the FA Cup last season.

“Hopefully he will come back for the game but, if he needs to stay, family issues are the most important thing,” Guardiola added.

Haaland’s Foot Injury

Erling Haaland has been sidelined since 6 December due to a foot injury. His availability for the FA Cup tie remains uncertain.

Possible Returns of De Bruyne and Doku

Midfielder Kevin de Bruyne and winger Jeremy Doku have returned to training after recovering from injuries. However, Guardiola is unsure if they will feature in the upcoming match or in Manchester City’s next Premier League game against Newcastle United on Saturday 13 January.

“Jeremy feels really good and Kevin as well. Kevin was out for a long time so we have to be patient,” said Guardiola.

Guardiola’s Update on Player Fitness

Regarding the players’ fitness, Guardiola mentioned, “Erling is also a little bit better. It is the bone so that’s why I have to be a little bit more careful. They feel good and are improving. I don’t know about Sunday or Newcastle but for the rest, they will be ready.”

De Bruyne has been out of action since tearing his hamstring during Manchester City’s Premier League season opener against Burnley on 11 August. He was an unused substitute in their last league win over Sheffield United.

Illness Affecting Four Players

Guardiola also revealed that Bernardo Silva, Kalvin Phillips, Matheus Nunes, and Scott Carson are currently struggling with illness.