Manchester City midfielder Rodri will remain sidelined until at least mid-September after suffering a setback in his recovery from an injury sustained against Al Hilal. Manager Pep Guardiola confirmed the development, noting that the Spaniard is improving but not yet ready for action.

“Rodri is getting better but had a big injury against Al Hilal. He’s trained better, we hope after the international break is when he will be really fit,” Guardiola said.

The absence of the influential midfielder is a blow to City, who face a packed fixture schedule before the international break and will be hoping for his swift return to full fitness.