Pep Guardiola backs Man City to handle title pressure ahead of Everton trip

The Spain international has missed City's last two matches after suffering a groin injury during last month's 2-1 win over Arsenal. 

City still managed victories against Burnley in the league and Southampton in the FA Cup semi-final, but Guardiola admitted Rodri is not yet ready to return to training.

"He is getting better," Guardiola told reporters. "He still didn't train with us, so we will see in the next days."

When asked if Rodri could still feature against Everton, Guardiola replied: "I am always confident."

The City boss also revealed that defenders Ruben Dias and Josko Gvardiol are improving physically, although Dias is also unlikely to be ready in time for the match.

"Not yet, but he is getting better," Guardiola said of Dias. "Him, Josko Gvardiol, and Rodri are all improving."

City head to Everton knowing every point could prove decisive in the title race. Guardiola expects another difficult test against David Moyes' side, especially with the match taking place at Everton's new Hill Dickinson Stadium.

"Difficult opponents - they always have been," Guardiola said. "They defend really well. David Moyes knows exactly what to do.

"The game at the Etihad was decided by two or three actions. At that moment we weren't good. We're better now, and hopefully we can use what we are playing for to win, win, win."

Guardiola also praised Moyes for maintaining his passion and competitiveness after decades in management.

"David Moyes has had that passion since he was born," he said. "It's really impressive at his age that he's still going strong. Everton have had very good results recently and are fighting for a place in Europe."

Despite City facing four matches in 11 days during the closing stages of the season, Guardiola refused to complain about the schedule.

"It is what it is," he said. "We have to adapt and take it game by game. If you don't like it, go and train in France or Portugal. I like being here."

The City manager was also full of praise for defender John Stones, calling him one of the club's most important figures during their recent success.

"He was one of my first signings," Guardiola said. "He was by far the best player in the Champions League final in Istanbul. He is an incredible person, on and off the pitch."

Away from the pitch, Manchester City confirmed plans to partially open the expanded North Stand at the Etihad Stadium for the final home match of the season against Aston Villa.

The redevelopment will increase the stadium's capacity to more than 60,000. A test event is scheduled for May 20, with adult tickets priced at five pounds and under-18 tickets costing three pounds, including food and drink.

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