As the Premier League title race heats up, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has offered a crucial update on star midfielder Rodri ahead of this weekend's clash with Brentford. The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner has been sidelined since suffering a groin injury during City's 2-1 victory over Arsenal on April 19, and his absence has been keenly felt.

Speaking at his Friday press conference, Guardiola revealed that Rodri remains a doubt for Saturday's match at the Etihad Stadium. "He made a little problem and still doesn't feel completely comfortable," Guardiola said. "When he will be ready and fit to come back - this afternoon, hopefully - he will come back. We will see."

Rodri has missed City's last three matches, and while the team managed to win the first two without him, their vulnerability was exposed in a dramatic 3-3 draw with Everton on Monday. Jeremy Doku's last-gasp equalizer salvaged a point, but the result shifted momentum in the title race back to Arsenal, who now sit five points clear at the top with City holding a game in hand.

Guardiola, however, refused to pin the disappointing result solely on Rodri's absence. "It does not depend on him," the Catalan coach insisted. "We gave it away, but not because Rodri was not there."

The draw at Everton means City's title hopes now hinge on their performance against a Brentford side chasing European qualification. Guardiola is relishing the return to home soil after a lengthy gap. "It has been a long time since we last played a home game - I think it was Arsenal," he noted. "I love to play at home. Hopefully the fans can come and put pressure on Arsenal. That is all we can do."

In other positive news for City fans, Guardiola confirmed that the club is close to finalizing a new contract for academy graduate Phil Foden, whose current deal runs until 2027. "I asked my sporting director. He said they are close, and hopefully it is going to happen. It is not done yet," Guardiola added.

For now, all eyes are on Rodri's fitness test later today. If he passes, City's title charge could get the boost it desperately needs. If not, Guardiola will have to find another way to keep the trophy dream alive.