Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has revealed that midfielder Rodri is recovering from a significant injury sustained during the Club World Cup, which could restrict the Ballon d’Or winner’s playing time in the early part of the new Premier League season.
Idman.biz, citing BBC, reports that the 29-year-old Spain international picked up the injury in Manchester City’s 4-3 loss to Saudi side Al-Hilal in the round of 16 at the Club World Cup in July. While Guardiola did not disclose the exact nature of the injury, British media reports suggest Rodri suffered a groin problem. This setback follows a lengthy eight-month recovery from a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, which had sidelined him until May.
Guardiola expressed cautious optimism, saying Rodri has shown improvement in recent training sessions. “Hopefully after the international break in September, he will be really fit,” he told reporters ahead of City’s friendly against Palermo. Guardiola added that while Rodri may feature for limited minutes in the first few Premier League matches, the priority is to avoid rushing him back and risking further injury.
Manchester City, who finished third last season, open their league campaign away to Wolverhampton Wanderers on August 16. Rodri’s gradual return will be closely watched as City aim to mount a serious title challenge.
Idman.biz
