Rodri’s Injury Struggles Continue

Rodri has faced a challenging start to the 2025-26 season after returning from nearly nine months out with an ACL rupture sustained in September 2024. The Spain international showed promise during the FIFA Club World Cup in June, but a recurrence of knee issues delayed his full integration into Manchester City’s starting lineup.

Rodri missed Manchester City’s opening-day win against Wolves and came off the bench the following week against Tottenham. He managed a series of starts between August and October, helping City stabilize after a slow start to the season.

However, a hamstring injury during City’s 1-0 win at Brentford in early October sidelined him for three weeks, highlighting the difficulties of returning to peak form after a long-term injury.

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Guardiola Offers Reassurance

Speaking ahead of City’s Premier League clash with Liverpool, manager Pep Guardiola expressed unwavering confidence in Rodri’s long-term contributions:

“I’m 100% convinced he will be back and he will play. Maybe it will take a little bit of time to reach the level that he had. But to play the game, game, game – he’s going to do it. It’s just we have to be sure the moment is there.”

Guardiola emphasized the need for careful management given the demanding schedule, which includes Premier League fixtures, European competitions, and national team duties.

“The problem is every three, four days… you play one game a week, oh my God, you will recover perfectly. But this is so demanding. When I see Rodri and the doctors say he’s ready? He’s going to play, my friend. And we have to be careful, be sure you cannot step back.”

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Gradual Return and Competition in Midfield

Rodri returned in City’s 3-1 win over Bournemouth last weekend, though Guardiola is unlikely to risk him against Liverpool ahead of the November international break. In his absence, Nico Gonzalez, the club’s January signing, has impressed while holding down the number six role.

Guardiola stressed that while Rodri may not immediately play every game, he expects the midfielder to gradually regain full match fitness and consistency, crucial for Manchester City’s title ambitions.

“When it’s a long injury, history says the year after, you have slightly problems. I try to avoid it, not just for Rodri, for all of them. But it happened. We have to be careful and make sure the step forward is permanent.”

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Outlook for Manchester City

Rodri’s careful reintegration reflects City’s focus on long-term squad health and performance sustainability. With Guardiola managing minutes and monitoring recovery, the former Atletico Madrid man is expected to be a key figure as Manchester City pursue Premier League, domestic cup, and European glory.