Man City XI vs Chelsea: Rodri return, team news and predicted lineup

Manchester City could hand Rodri his first Premier League start since October when Chelsea visit the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, with Pep Guardiola juggling fresh injury concerns after the goalless draw at Sunderland.

City dropped further ground in the title race on Thursday night, falling four points behind leaders Arsenal, but the champions have an immediate chance to respond against a Chelsea side in turmoil. With barely 72 hours between fixtures, Guardiola faces a delicate balance between continuity and necessity.

Rodri has not started a Premier League game since matchweek seven, away to Brentford, as he battled a persistent hamstring issue. His return to action at the Stadium of Light was significant, with the Spaniard replacing the injured Nico González at half-time and immediately improving City’s control.

Guardiola was unequivocal in his assessment of Rodri’s impact.

“He changed the game. He proved in 45 minutes that he is the best in his position,” the City boss said. “Hopefully he can stay fit because he makes us a better team.”

González had become Rodri’s primary understudy in recent weeks, making the timing of his injury unfortunate but also opening the door for Rodri to return to the starting XI.

City picked up two new fitness concerns in the northeast. Savinho was forced off early in the second half, with Guardiola admitting post-match that the issue “does not look good”, though no definitive update has yet been given on his availability.

Guardiola also did not expand on González’s problem, leaving both players as doubts ahead of Sunday’s clash.

There is better news elsewhere, with Joško Gvardiol expected to return to the starting XI after being named on the bench against Sunderland. Gianluigi Donnarumma will continue in goal, while long-term absentees Mateo Kovačić, Oscar Bobb and John Stones remain sidelined. Omar Marmoush and Rayan Aït-Nouri are still away at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Guardiola has largely resisted rotation in recent weeks, sticking with a settled formula, but the congested schedule could prompt changes. Jeremy Doku’s return offers an alternative in wide areas, potentially allowing Phil Foden a rest after completing 90 minutes in four consecutive league matches.

Erling Haaland is expected to lead the line once again, supported by a midfield trio built around Rodri, with Tijjani Reijnders and Bernardo Silva likely to flank him.

City are expected to line up in a 4-3-3 formation. Donnarumma should start in goal, with Matheus Nunes, Rúben Dias, Gvardiol and Nico O’Reilly forming the defence. Rodri is set to anchor midfield alongside Bernardo Silva and Reijnders, while Rayan Cherki and Phil Foden support Haaland in attack.

The Premier League fixture kicks off at 5:30pm GMT on Sunday 4 January 2026 at the Etihad Stadium. The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports.

Manchester City will be eager to capitalise on Chelsea’s instability and avoid losing further ground in the title race. Guardiola’s selection, particularly around Rodri’s fitness and Savinho’s availability, could be decisive as City look to reassert control at home.

Should Guardiola start Rodri immediately — or ease him back despite the stakes in the title race?