Manchester City could move to the top of the Premier League table with a win over Everton at the Etihad Stadium on Saturday afternoon, as Pep Guardiola looks to extend his side’s seven-match unbeaten run in all competitions.

Speaking ahead of the clash, Guardiola offered an update on several key players.
“There’s no news. Rodri is not ready for tomorrow,” he confirmed. “I don’t know when he will be back.”

On Mateo Kovacic’s fitness, the manager added: “Maybe 50 or 60 minutes. He needs quality moments, quality time, and quality minutes. It’s important he comes back step by step.”

Guardiola also provided positive news on Omar Marmoush and Rayan Aït-Nouri: “They trained yesterday and are much, much better. They’re close to returning.”

Praise for Grealish
The City boss was full of admiration for Jack Grealish’s recent performances.
“His impact has been massive since day one. He’s playing really well — exactly what he wanted,” said Guardiola. “He’s a lovely, unbelievable guy, and now he’s back to real business, playing every game.”

However, Grealish will be unavailable for the weekend fixture as he cannot face his parent club. Guardiola joked that he would change that rule if he could.
“They’re the rules. When I’m CEO or president of a big institution in England, maybe I’ll change it,” he laughed. “If he could play, it would be nice — but I have no opinion.”

Haaland’s Hot Streak
Erling Haaland’s remarkable scoring form continues, with 21 goals in just 12 appearances for club and country this season. Guardiola, though, was realistic about sustaining such levels.
“He’s doing really well right now, but you can’t maintain this level forever,” he said. “When he drops, we’ll be there — the whole team will support him. We always have to sustain each other through difficult moments.”

Guardiola also noted the importance of Haaland’s potential involvement in the upcoming World Cup with Norway: “It’s really nice and important for him and for his country.”

O’Reilly’s Rise
Finally, the manager praised youngster Nico O’Reilly, who is pushing for a spot in England’s World Cup squad after a series of impressive performances.
“The games he’s played are at a very high level,” Guardiola said. “Young players must be careful with compliments — staying mentally stable is key. Nico is a really stable guy, and that’s vital, especially as he joins the England squad for the first time alongside Thomas.”