Manchester City’s 2–0 victory over Everton at the Etihad brought both relief and renewed optimism for Pep Guardiola. The win not only kept City’s Premier League title charge on track but also marked the return of three important squad members: Omar Marmoush, Rayan Cherki, and Mateo Kovačić.
Kovačić made his first appearance of the season after recovering from a stubborn Achilles injury, while Marmoush and Cherki both featured for the first time since August. Their involvement offers Guardiola more attacking depth ahead of a demanding fixture schedule across four competitions.
However, the City boss still has a few lingering fitness headaches to contend with, as key names like Rodri, Rayan Aït-Nouri, and Abdukodir Khusanov continue their recoveries.
Rodri – hamstring concern being managed carefully
Rodri remains on the sidelines after hobbling off early during City’s win over Brentford earlier this month. The Spaniard later confirmed that the issue was a minor hamstring strain rather than a recurrence of the ACL injury that ruled him out for much of last season.
“I felt a little bit in the hamstring, but it’s not that big,” Rodri told Sky Sports. Guardiola has, however, confirmed that he will not rush his midfield anchor back into action, noting: “I don’t know how long he will be out. Not yet ready for tomorrow.” With no further update following the Everton match, a November return looks most likely.
Potential return date: November 2025
Rayan Aït-Nouri – edging closer to return from ankle injury
Summer signing Rayan Aït-Nouri continues to make progress in his recovery from the ankle injury sustained against Tottenham in August. Guardiola revealed last week that the Algerian had resumed full training alongside Marmoush but was not quite ready for selection.
While Marmoush featured off the bench against Everton, Aït-Nouri was left out of the matchday squad entirely. That absence suggests his comeback is imminent but not immediate. The left-back could be eased back into action either in the Champions League midweek trip to Villarreal or the Premier League clash against Aston Villa next weekend.
Potential return date: October 26, 2025 – vs Aston Villa (A)
Abdukodir Khusanov – setback delays expected return
Defender Abdukodir Khusanov’s recovery has taken longer than anticipated. The Uzbekistan international picked up an ankle injury in City’s 1–1 draw with Arsenal in September, and Guardiola initially expected him to miss just three matches.
However, with five fixtures now gone and no sign of his return, it appears Khusanov’s rehabilitation has been slower than expected. The defender missed international duty during October and was not seen in recent training footage. If progress continues positively this week, he could still make the bench for the trip to Villa Park.
Potential return date: October 26, 2025 – vs Aston Villa (A)
Squad depth returning at a crucial time
The good news for City fans is that Guardiola’s squad is gradually regaining depth. Kovačić’s availability gives the manager another option in midfield, while Marmoush and Cherki’s attacking return adds flexibility in the front line. With Erling Haaland and Phil Foden both in strong form, the City boss finally has scope to rotate key players ahead of the busy November–December schedule.
That depth will be critical as City push across all fronts: Premier League title defence, Champions League group progression, and domestic cup campaigns. Guardiola has already hinted that managing workloads and keeping players fresh will be his top priority heading into winter.
Why City’s medical approach is paying off
Manchester City’s careful management of player recoveries has long been one of their competitive advantages. The club’s medical department works in tandem with Guardiola’s coaching team to individualise training loads and ensure minimal re-injury risk.
Rodri’s gradual reintegration plan and Aït-Nouri’s delayed comeback both reflect this philosophy — a model that has helped City maintain consistency in performance even during injury crises. Insiders say Guardiola would rather sacrifice one or two short-term results than risk long-term absences for key players in a congested campaign.
Analyst Verdict
In my view, Guardiola’s injury management once again highlights why City remain Europe’s most resilient squad. Rotating effectively while easing players back to full fitness is something his rivals often struggle with.
FootballPlace analyst John William adds: “City’s patience with Rodri and Khusanov shows the luxury of depth in their squad. Guardiola trusts the system enough to avoid rushing anyone back — a small detail that often defines champions.”
Key Insights
- Rodri is recovering from a minor hamstring injury and may return in November.
- Aït-Nouri is nearing full fitness and could be in the squad to face Aston Villa.
- Khusanov’s return has been delayed but remains possible later this month.
- Marmoush, Cherki, and Kovačić have all returned to action after layoffs.
- Guardiola continues to balance recovery time with fixture intensity.
What’s Next for Manchester City
City travel to Spain to face Villarreal in the Champions League on Tuesday before visiting Aston Villa on Sunday. With several key players close to returning, Guardiola will hope to continue his side’s strong form as the winter fixture congestion begins.
The return of Rodri, Aït-Nouri, and Khusanov in the coming weeks would provide a significant boost as City aim to stay competitive on all four fronts.
👉 Can Manchester City’s returning stars help Pep Guardiola navigate a brutal winter schedule and keep their treble hopes alive?
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