Man City face fitness race ahead of Aston Villa showdown in Premier League

Pep Guardiola's side have been in fine form, unbeaten in nine matches across all competitions, and recently moved into second place in the Premier League, three points behind leaders Arsenal, following a 2-0 victory over Everton.

City also claimed a comfortable 2-0 win away to Villarreal in the Champions League on Tuesday night, despite being without several regular starters.

However, Guardiola may again have to shuffle his midfield options at Villa Park. Rodri has missed City's last two games after picking up a hamstring injury during the 1-0 win at Brentford earlier this month. The Spanish international, who remains a pivotal figure in City's midfield, is rated a major doubt for the clash in Birmingham.

Guardiola confirmed after the Villarreal match that Rodri is unlikely to feature, saying: "I don't think he'll be available. It's not long but it's muscular and you have to be careful."

Defender Abdukodir Khusanov is also struggling to return to fitness. The Uzbekistan international has been sidelined for six matches with an unspecified injury, now potentially delayed by another week, and faces a race against time to be available for selection.

In more positive news, summer signing Nico Gonzalez could return after picking up a minor knock to his feet during the Villarreal win. 

The 21-year-old was withdrawn in the 57th minute in Spain, but Guardiola remains optimistic about his recovery. "It was a knock to the feet," he said. "We hope he can train and be ready for Villa."

City have no players suspended for the trip to Villa Park, where Unai Emery's team will be looking to extend their strong home record.

A win for City would not only preserve their unbeaten run but could also tighten the title race ahead of next weekend's fixtures.

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