Manchester City returns for the Premier League Matchday 3 action to face West Ham United. This marks the final domestic clash of August before players head off for a brief international break. Today, Pep Guardiola and Co. would also want to curtain this month with their third consecutive victory. But a key question looms- Will star midfielder Rodri play tonight?

The Spaniard returned with quite a busy summer with his beloved nation, winning the 2024 UEFA Euro. He took a long vacation but short enough to return to his domestic camp to kick start the new season. However, there has been no sign of the 28-year-old on the pitch as he also sustained a minor injury, with a few fitness-related issues as well, forcing Guardiola to keep him out.

Fortunately, Rodri is fit to play tonight for Manchester City vs West Ham United after getting a clearance from City’s fitness department. The former Atletico Madrid man shall be available at Guardiola’s disposal to further extend their lead in the table by clinching the crucial three points. Luckily in his absence, the Man City’s midfield did just fine.

Following an FA Community Shield win over Manchester United, the Sky Blues kick-started their PL campaign with a decent 0-2 victory over Chelsea. The previous match saw them thrash newcomers Ipswich Town 4-1, courtesy of a hattrick from Erling Haaland and Kevin De Bruyne. Now before a selection of players reunite with their respective nations, City stars will look for another win tonight.

Meanwhile, it’s unlikely that Rodri would be called up by Luis de la Fuente for the UEFA Nations League. La Roja will be facing Serbia on September 6 and Switzerland on September 9. Hence, Guardiola would want Rodri to take precautionary rest and train further for the crucial matches. Just after the international break, they will be facing Brentford on Sept 14 before heading for the EFL Cup Third Round against Watford on September 17.

Then, September 22 sees Man City face the formidable Arsenal. Overall, the upcoming domestic weeks are quite hectic and Guardiola would want the most of them to remain at his service. Speaking of, what other injury concerns is the former Barcelona boss dealing with?

Aside from Rodri, Pep Guardiola gets double injury boost ahead of West Ham United face-off

Mateo Kovacic gave an injury scare in the previous fixture against Ipswich Town. Despite receiving medical attention, he was forced off just 10 minutes before the hour mark due to a knock. However, he shall return for tonight’s clash as the former Real Madrid man got enough time to recover earlier. The 30-year-old had also come off the bench to add a second for City against his former side during the 0-2 win over the Blues. Meanwhile, the second boost comes to be Phil Foden.

The Englishman returned late to his domestic side after suffering a heartbreak from Rodri’s Spain in the final of the Euros. While he was involved in the Chelsea game, the Ipswich clash saw him absent due to an illness. Fortunately, the 24-year-old has recovered and shall face West Ham tonight. On the other hand, the only injury concern for City is Oscar Bobb. The youngster, who was touted to have a breakthrough season under Guardiola, suffered a leg fracture earlier in training. Bobb is facing absence of 3-4 months.