Ballon d’Or winner set to return to Manchester City

Manchester City are set for a major boost ahead of their clash with Tottenham Hotspur, as Pep Guardiola confirmed Ballon d’Or winner Rodri will return to the squad after missing the Premier League opener.

The Spanish midfielder, who battled injury setbacks last season, is being eased back carefully as City look to build momentum early in the campaign.

Rodri has been described by Guardiola as the best player in the world, but consistency and fitness have been the biggest hurdles in recent months.

The midfielder missed City’s 4-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers due to groin issues picked up at the Club World Cup, adding to the knee problems that hampered much of his previous season.

Guardiola stressed that Rodri’s quality has never been in doubt, but regular minutes are the only way to restore his rhythm.

His presence offers control and balance in midfield, qualities that City lacked at times last year when injuries piled up.

With Tottenham arriving at the Etihad in strong form after their 3-0 win over Burnley, the return of Rodri could not have come at a better moment for Guardiola’s men.

Rodri is not the only key returnee, with Phil Foden also back after overcoming an ankle problem. Guardiola confirmed that only Mateo Kovacic, Josko Gvardiol and Savinho remain sidelined.

The Spanish manager also spoke on James Trafford, the academy graduate who impressed in his Premier League debut, but left questions open about Ederson’s future amid interest from Galatasaray.

Transfer speculation also surrounds defender Manuel Akanji, although Guardiola insisted decisions will unfold before the September 1 deadline.

Despite a strong start against Wolves, Guardiola dismissed claims that Manchester City have already rediscovered their swagger, preferring to take progress one game at a time.