Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to challenge for the Premier League title, contingent on Rodri regaining his peak form following his return from injury. The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, who missed a significant portion of last season due to knee surgery, has struggled with fitness issues this term. Despite losing three of their first nine league games, City have shown resilience, losing only once in their last 11 matches across all competitions, including a strong start in the Champions League and advancement to the League Cup quarter-finals. Rodri is expected to make his return when City face second-placed Bournemouth at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Guardiola stated, ‘I think he [Rodri] will be ready to help. I don’t know if he will be able to play from the beginning, but hopefully he can be with us.’ Erling Haaland is also fit despite a minor injury sustained in the 1-0 defeat at Aston Villa. Guardiola remains optimistic about City’s prospects, noting, ‘I have the feeling Rodri can become his best, we’ll be a team that’s difficult to beat.’ City currently trail Bournemouth by two points, with the latter on an eight-game unbeaten streak. Guardiola praised Bournemouth’s cohesion and philosophy, highlighting their strategic player sales and consistent performance.