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Man City's Haaland fit, Rodri could also feature against Bournemouth

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, October 31st 2025 at 14:36 GMT by reuters.com
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Haaland back in action

Erling Haaland, who had missed the previous game against Newcastle due to a minor hamstring issue, has now returned to full fitness, with City’s medical staff reporting that he is "completely ready" for the upcoming match. In his last appearance for the club, Haaland demonstrated his trademark finishing ability, scoring twice in a dominant performance that saw City maintain a 10‑point lead over Liverpool. The Norwegian striker’s return is seen as a critical boost for City’s attack, as manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly planning to rely on his goal‑scoring prowess to secure a convincing win.

Rodri’s potential inclusion

Alongside Haaland’s recovery, midfielder Rodri is also expected to be available. Rodri had been out of the starting XI since the 2‑0 defeat to Arsenal, where he sustained a knee contusion. According to the club’s official statement, he has made a full recovery and will likely take part in the match against Bournemouth. Guardiola has expressed confidence in Rodri’s versatility, noting that he can operate both centrally and on the left flank, offering the team tactical flexibility.

Tactical expectations

Guardiola’s plans for the Bournemouth game have been outlined in a brief interview that followed the statement. He emphasized that the team will maintain their high‑pressing style, while also focusing on a more measured build‑up to reduce turnovers. “We will adapt to the pace of the game and keep the pressure on the opposition,” Guardiola said. The Citizens will likely look to exploit their midfield dominance, with Rodri possibly playing a key role in linking the defense and attack.

City’s current line‑up is expected to feature a familiar core: Kevin De Bruyne and Rodri in midfield, with Haaland and Gabriel Jesus on the frontline. However, the side may also incorporate other squad members such as James Rodriguez and Phil Foden to provide additional creativity. Guardiola’s comment that “the squad is ready for the match” reflects his confidence in the depth of the roster, especially after the club’s recent injury concerns.

Bournemouth’s form and position

Bournemouth, who sit in the mid‑table, are looking to capitalize on a strong start to the season. Their recent performances have shown a balanced approach, with a 3‑2 victory over Crystal Palace indicating their potential to challenge top teams. According to a Reuters preview article, the Cherries will need to maintain composure and avoid lapses in defense to take advantage of City’s potential vulnerability in the defensive line, especially after a series of congested fixtures.

Historical context

The previous match between Manchester City and Bournemouth, which took place earlier in the season, ended in a 5‑1 win for City. This result, reported by Reuters, highlighted City’s attacking depth and the resilience of their defense. The scoreline not only solidified City’s position at the top of the Premier League but also showcased the effectiveness of Guardiola’s tactical system, particularly the use of high pressing and quick transitions. The victory over Bournemouth was also significant as it marked the first time in the season that City had scored more than four goals in a match, underscoring the offensive potency of their front line.

Impact on the season

With the Premier League title still hotly contested, Manchester City’s upcoming game against Bournemouth is pivotal. A victory will extend their lead at the top of the table, allowing them to concentrate on their Champions League campaign in the coming weeks. Conversely, a defeat could open up the title race, especially as Liverpool and Chelsea remain within striking distance. The confidence expressed by City’s management after the announcement of Haaland’s fitness suggests that the club is optimistic about securing another win at the Etihad Stadium.

Closing thoughts

The confirmation of Erling Haaland’s fitness and the probable inclusion of Rodri set the stage for a potentially high‑scoring match. Guardiola’s focus on maintaining the high‑pressing system and the ability to adapt to the opposition’s play style reflects his strategic approach to managing a deep squad across multiple competitions. As the match approaches, the anticipation will grow, particularly from fans who are eager to see how City will use their attacking assets against a Bournemouth side that is keen to secure a top‑ten finish.

The match is scheduled for Sunday at 5:30 p.m. GMT. As the Premier League season progresses, Manchester City’s performance against Bournemouth will be closely watched by analysts and supporters alike, offering insights into the club’s trajectory for both domestic and European competitions.