Key Takeaways
- Rodri acknowledges it will take “months” before he returns to his top form after suffering a season‑ending ACL injury.
- Pep Guardiola confirms Rodri is not ready for full matches yet, but has made progress with 30–35 minute appearances in recent games.
- The midfielder has resumed individual training and is gradually cleared of minor setbacks that often follow long layoffs.
- With Manchester City navigating intense heat and physical strain at the Club World Cup, Guardiola is managing Rodri’s minutes carefully.
- Rodri’s return is seen as vital: City’s performance dipped significantly without him––their win rate fell and goals conceded increased.
Manchester City’s midfield orchestrator is on the mend. After tearing his ACL in September, Rodri returned to individual training in March, and Guardiola has since been easing him back into competitive action—capping his game time at around 30 to 35 minutes due to the risk of recurring niggles.
Rodri himself admits the path ahead is long. “I know it’s still going to be months until I reach my level,” he said, setting realistic expectations for his comeback.
Guardiola echoed this sentiment, stressing patience: “He’s making steps forward… we’re protecting his knee.” Playing in heavy heat at the Club World Cup hasn’t helped, but the club is carefully managing minutes to get him back safely.
City’s stats without Rodri underscored his importance: the team saw their win rate drop and goals conceded rise—underscoring why reclaiming his presence is crucial.
Rodri’s journey back isn’t just personal—it’s pivotal for Manchester City’s season. His patience and professionalism are guiding his return, and every step forward brings them closer to restoring midfield control as they target more silverware. For full updates on his progress, match readiness, and tactical shift post-return, stay tuned to Goal Drift.
