Guardiola Warns: Man City in 'Big, Big Trouble'

Guardiola has acknowledged the fatigue among Manchester City players, especially after Rodri expressed a need for rest following their midweek Champions League fixture against Real Madrid. Despite being third in the Premier League standings, City remain only one point behind both Liverpool and Arsenal with seven games remaining. Guardiola hinted that if Rodri insists on rest, he might have to be sidelined.

City's recent performances have shown signs of weariness, evident in their comeback win against Crystal Palace and conceding three goals against Real Madrid. However, they remain unbeaten since December 6, with draws against Arsenal and Liverpool in recent weeks.

Guardiola told reporters: "Take a look at our games and you realise. It is simple. He is so important for the quality he gives us. But if you have a player that doesn't want to play, he won't play. I need to rest the centre halves also but in [England's] friendly games, [John Stones and Kyle Walker] got injured so they get cannot rest. We are in big, big trouble. I had the feeling we were tired in the last games. We will decide [on Saturday] what we have to do."

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This weekend, Manchester City faces a crucial match against Luton, a game with significant implications for both ends of the Premier League table. Guardiola's side is in pursuit of the title, while the Hatters find themselves in a relegation battle, currently sitting 18th, level on points with Nottingham Forest but in the drop zone due to goal difference. City has already clashed with Luton twice this season at Kenilworth Road, securing a 2-1 victory in the league and a dominant 6-2 win in the FA Cup fifth round.

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