Manchester City will face a challenging situation as they prepare for their upcoming Champions League match against Villarreal, with four players potentially sidelined due to injuries. The team has recently enjoyed a solid run, remaining unbeaten in their last eight games, including a 2-0 victory over Everton that saw them climb to second in the Premier League, just three points behind leaders Arsenal.

However, head coach Pep Guardiola will have to navigate this match without key players Rodri and Abdukodir Khusanov. Rodri, who has been nursing a hamstring injury sustained earlier this month against Brentford, had hoped to return for the Everton match but was ultimately not risked. Guardiola confirmed that Rodri would miss both the Villarreal clash and an upcoming Premier League match against Aston Villa, aiming for a return for the subsequent game against Swansea.

Nico O'Reilly, who has recently impressed in the left-back position, walked off with a knee injury during the match against Everton. Guardiola expressed optimism that it was merely a knock and hoped O'Reilly would be fit to play against Villarreal.

Additionally, Abdukodir Khusanov, who had been establishing himself as a regular starter at right-back, is also out due to an undisclosed injury sustained in a previous match. His return is anticipated for the Villa game on October 26.

Rayan Ait-Nouri, dealing with an ankle injury, has made progress in training but did not feature against Everton and remains uncertain for the Villarreal match. Guardiola's side will need to adapt quickly as they look to maintain their momentum in both domestic and European competitions, especially against a Villarreal team that is looking to make its mark in the tournament.