Rodri, Manchester City’s key midfield presence, is enduring a frustrating stage in his recovery after another setback pushed back his full return. Pep Guardiola has admitted the Spaniard is unlikely to be “really fit” before the September international break, a blow for both player and club as they prepare for the Premier League’s start.
The 28-year-old has been in lengthy rehabilitation since tearing his anterior cruciate ligament last September, an injury that ruled him out for most of the 2024–25 season and disrupted City’s midfield balance. His long-awaited return came late last season when he featured as a substitute in the penultimate league match against Bournemouth, raising hopes of a full comeback.
Rodri was also part of Guardiola’s squad for the Club World Cup in the United States this summer. He came on in the last-16 tie against Al-Hilal but was forced off early in extra time with a suspected groin problem, creating fresh concerns among fans and staff. “Rodri is improving but he had a significant injury in that game,” Guardiola said, adding, “He has trained better in recent days. Hopefully, after the international break, he will be really fit.”
City begin their league campaign on August 16 against Wolves, followed by games against Tottenham and Brighton before the break. Guardiola hopes to give Rodri limited minutes but will not risk aggravating the injury. “What is important is that he doesn’t have pain because we don’t want Rodri coming back injured,” he stressed.
For now, Rodri continues to train with the first team. He is one of Guardiola’s most crucial players because of his passing range, defensive acumen, and composure on the ball; his eventual return to full fitness will be crucial for City’s title hopes. Supporters and the team will need to wait patiently for him to regain control of games from the middle of midfield.
