Man City injury update: Rodri and Abdukodir Khusanov latest news and return dates

Manchester City’s nine-game unbeaten run came to an end at Villa Park as Matty Cash’s first-half strike earned Aston Villa a 1–0 win. Despite controlling possession, Erling Haaland endured a rare quiet afternoon in front of goal as Pep Guardiola’s side failed to find a way through.

The focus now turns to Wednesday’s Carabao Cup fourth-round clash away to Swansea City — and Guardiola has provided the latest on his squad’s fitness situation.

City continue to monitor the condition of Rodri, who has been sidelined since picking up an injury early in the 1–1 draw against Brentford before the October international break.

The Spanish midfielder has missed four consecutive matches — against Everton, Villarreal, and Aston Villa — and was not called up for Spain’s World Cup qualifiers against Georgia and Bulgaria.

“The guys who were not able to play against Villarreal are still not ready,” Guardiola said before the Villa match.

While the injury is not believed to be long-term, the club are taking a cautious approach given Rodri’s heavy workload last season. Guardiola is determined to avoid aggravating the issue, with the midfielder’s return date still unclear.

Potential return date: Unknown

Defender Abdukodir Khusanov has been absent since being substituted at half-time during City’s 1–1 draw with Arsenal last month. Initially, Guardiola expected the Uzbekistan international to miss three games, but he has now been sidelined for more than seven consecutive matches.

“I think he’s close,” Guardiola said on Friday. “But he’s still not ready — it’s an injury in a dangerous, dangerous position in his body.”

At just 21 years old, City are keen not to rush Khusanov’s recovery. His progress is being carefully managed, and he could return to the squad in the coming weeks if training goes smoothly.

Potential return date: Unknown

Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City have been relatively fortunate with injuries so far this season, but the absences of Rodriand Khusanov have been felt. Without their midfield controller, City’s rhythm in possession has occasionally faltered — especially in games like the defeat at Villa Park.

Guardiola’s priority will be ensuring both players return fully fit before the intense winter fixture list begins. Rodri’s absence, in particular, highlights just how essential he is to City’s balance and structure — a problem Guardiola has admitted is “impossible” to replicate.

Manchester City face Swansea away in the Carabao Cup fourth round on Wednesday night before returning to Premier League action next weekend. Guardiola will hope for positive fitness updates on Rodri and Khusanov ahead of the busy November schedule.

👉 Man City sweating on Rodri and Khusanov fitness — Guardiola gives latest update ahead of Swansea trip.