Manchester City midfielder Rodri has opened up about his road to recovery after a lengthy injury layoff, admitting it could take “months” before he fully regains his best form.
The 29-year-old Ballon d’Or winner missed the majority of the 2024–25 season after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury in a 2-2 draw with Arsenal last September. Following surgery, Rodri spent eight months on the sidelines before returning as a late substitute against Bournemouth on May 20.
Since then, Pep Guardiola has been carefully easing Rodri back into action. The Spanish international has featured off the bench in both of City’s FIFA Club World Cup group-stage wins—playing the final 30 minutes in victories over Wydad AC and Al-Ain.
Although fans were hopeful he might start against Juventus in Thursday’s Group G decider, Guardiola confirmed Rodri will likely feature from the bench again, citing the hot Orlando weather and the player’s ongoing recovery.
“I feel very strong,” Rodri said ahead of the match. “The process was long, but I stayed focused and didn’t let negativity creep in. I know it’ll be months before I’m fully back at my level, but I’m happy to be here again.”
Rodri also used the opportunity to raise concerns about football’s packed calendar, warning that players may one day go on strike if scheduling continues to intensify. “We’re getting close to that point,” he warned. “If things keep going like this, we might not have another choice.”
Despite his concerns, Rodri is embracing the Club World Cup as a perfect platform for his comeback. “Maybe if this tournament didn’t exist, I’d be on holiday. But for me, it’s a great chance to play again at a high level. The idea behind the tournament is amazing, and I’m excited.”
With Rodri still building fitness, Guardiola has a range of midfield options including summer signing Tijjani Reijnders—who debuted at the tournament—alongside Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva, and Nico Gonzalez. However, Claudio Echeverri is out with an ankle injury and will miss the next few matches.
City fans will be encouraged by Rodri’s return, even in a limited role, as the influential midfielder works toward regaining full form ahead of the new Premier League campaign.