Manchester City is currently in a hot state. After defeating Villarreal 2-0 in the Champions League, the team has been unbeaten in 9 consecutive games in all competitions. Haaland performed well in the frontcourt, while Donnarumma stabilized the defense in the backcourt. Players such as O'Reilly, Foden and Doku are also in excellent form, and Guardiola is about to have a fully healthy lineup.
According to the British media "Manchester Evening News", before the game against Villa, Rodri missed the Champions League away trip, and Nico Gonzalez was replaced due to injury in the second half. Both men are recovering well, but whether they can start at the weekend is still uncertain, especially Rodri, who has been plagued by injuries this season.
If both players are unable to play, Kovacic will likely make his first start of the season. He came on as a substitute in midweek and provided solid performance in midfield. However, Kovacic currently lacks physical fitness for the game due to Achilles tendon surgery in the summer. He has only played 37 minutes for Manchester City this season, despite starting for his country against Gibraltar during the international break.
Kovacic is a suitable candidate in the absence of Rodri and Nico Gonzalez, but his game fitness is a problem. Guardiola has spoken of the need to manage Kovacic's recovery process carefully and that asking for too much too soon could be risky.
The return time of Rodri and Nico Gonzalez is unclear. Although Kovacic's return comes at the right time, it also comes with certain risks. Guardiola and City need to proceed with caution.