Rodri’s Recovery Sparks Hope for Manchester City’s Season Run-In | OneFootball

Rodri’s Return: Guardiola Hints at Shock Comeback for Manchester City Star

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has sparked intrigue over Rodri’s potential return to full fitness ahead of schedule, offering fans a glimmer of hope as the season enters its decisive phase.

Injury Setback and Recovery Progress

Rodri has been out of action since mid-September, having suffered an ACL injury during City’s goalless draw against Arsenal. Initially, Guardiola confirmed that the Spanish midfielder would miss the remainder of the campaign following surgery, leaving a gaping void in City’s midfield.

Photo: IMAGO

Despite this prognosis, Rodri himself has remained optimistic about a comeback before the season concludes. However, Guardiola has consistently emphasised the importance of caution, ensuring that the 28-year-old does not rush his return at the risk of aggravating the injury.

Encouraging Signs from Training

This week brought a welcome boost for Manchester City as fresh footage surfaced on social media showing Rodri back on the training pitch. The midfielder was seen working through an individual session, a crucial step in his rehabilitation process.

His presence back on the grass raises questions about whether he could feature before the campaign ends, particularly as City continue to juggle multiple competitions.

Guardiola’s Cryptic Update

Speaking ahead of Manchester City’s FA Cup fifth-round tie against Plymouth, Guardiola hinted at a possible return for Rodri, stating:

“We can’t go three days, three days three days, so many games,” he told ITV Sport, explaining his decision to make 11 changes to the starting XI.

“And of course we need fresh legs and players to come on the team. This is (the full squad) except Oscar Bobb and Rodri, that they are close both to come back and it is the first time we will have more or less the squad and I am pretty sure if the season had been more or less that way the circumstances would have been different.”

While Guardiola stopped short of providing a definitive timeline, his comments suggest that Rodri could yet play a part in Manchester City’s run-in. If he can regain match fitness in time, his return could be a game-changer in their pursuit of silverware.