The City boss also provided the latest news on Ruben Dias ahead of what will be our first-ever trip to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Spanish holding midfielder Rodri has missed City’s last two fixtures – a Premier League win at Burnley and our FA Cup semi-final triumph against Southampton – due to a groin problem sustained in last month’s 2-1 league success over Arsenal.
But addressing the media at Friday’s pre-match press conference, the City boss provided an encouraging update on the 2024 Ballon D’Or winner’s progress.
“He is getting better. Still he hasn’t trained so we will see in the next few days.
“Always I am confident,” Pep said.
Pep also provided the latest news on Dias, who has been absent with a thigh injury since mid-March, along with long-term absentee Josko Gvardiol.
“Ruben is not yet with the team. Him, Josko and Rodri are getting better,” Guardiola added.
Everton have enjoyed a fine season under the stewardship of David Moyes.
The Merseysiders are still in content for a place in Europe and Guardiola said he was anticipating the toughest of tests on what will be a maiden visit to the Toffees’ new ground.
But he said with Arsenal now three points ahead in the title race – and with the Gunners due to play Fulham on Saturday evening – only a victory would suffice as the fight for the Premier League crown comes to the boil.
“Always Everton have been tough,” Pep added.
“Old Everton was so cool and so British and I loved to go there but in the new stadium they are defending really well and always it has been tough.
“In recent weeks, Everton have had very good results and are fighting for a place in Europe.
“We won with two or three actions here but we were not good at that moment.
“We can’t have any result but win, win, win.”
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