Foden and Rodri Return as City Host Spurs

The midfield maestro and England international were both left out of the matchday squad for City's emphatic 4-0 victory over Wolves on opening day, despite travelling with the team to Molineux.

Guardiola explained their absence was purely precautionary, citing insufficient training time and match sharpness following their extended summer breaks.

"Rodri and Phil weren't ready for 90 minutes against Wolves, but they're prepared now," the Catalan said during Friday's press conference. "They missed training and rhythm because they didn't travel to Palermo whilst others were completing the full pre-season programme."

The Spanish midfielder's return carries particular significance given his lengthy absence last season following a serious knee injury. Guardiola remains cautious about managing his Ballon d'Or winner but showed no doubt about his capabilities.

"I want consistency from Rodri - nothing more," Guardiola said. "He remains the world's finest player until someone else claims that crown in a few months. Quality isn't the question. Regular training, consistent minutes, steady progress - that's what matters."

Brazilian goalkeeper Ederson missed the Wolves victory through illness but has recovered fully. Guardiola faces a selection dilemma between the veteran and James Trafford, who impressed on his City debut at Molineux.

"We'll decide tonight or tomorrow morning," Guardiola said of his goalkeeper choice. "James brought youth and hunger - the desire to succeed at the club where he was raised. It's only one match, but we're pleased with his performance."

The manager praised how new arrivals inject fresh energy into his squad, comparing Trafford's impact to previous additions throughout his tenure.

City will continue without Croatian pair Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic, whilst Brazilian winger Savinho also remains unavailable against the the club he has been strongly linked with over the past fortnight.

Tottenham arrive at the Etihad having made their own statement with new signings. Mohammed Kudus started against Burnley last weekend, with João Palhinha introduced from the bench. The Portuguese midfielder looks set for a starting berth this time around.

Spurs face familiar defensive concerns with Radu Drăgușin, Destiny Udogie, James Maddison and Dejan Kuluševski all sidelined. Djed Spence will deputise at left-back again, whilst Rodrigo Bentancur could replace one of last week's midfield trio of Pape Matar Sarr, Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall.

Guardiola emphasised the need for improvement despite the impressive opening-day scoreline.

"We must maintain consistency in our approach and raise our level for Spurs," Pep added. "Better performance is required."

Predicted Line-ups:

Manchester City (4-2-3-1): Trafford; Lewis, Stones, Dias, Ait-Nouri; Nico Gonzalez, Silva, Reijnders; Doku, Bobb; Haaland

Tottenham (4-3-3): Vicario; Porro, van de Ven, Romero, Spence; Palhinha, Bentancur, Matar Sarr; Kudus, Richarlison, Johnson

Match Details:

Kick-off: 12:30pm BST, Saturday 23rd August 2025

Venue: Etihad Stadium

Television: TNT Sports