Manchester City midfielder Rodri recently returned to training for the first time since suffering an injury in September. The Spain international is hoping to return to action before the end of the season and represent Manchester City at the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
Rodri’s injury update
Rodri’s injury occurred during the early stages of the 2024 Premier League season. In a match against Arsenal, he was injured in a tackle and was diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament. This type of injury typically requires a long recovery period and is considered serious for professional athletes.
However, during his recovery period, Rodri was nominated for the Ballon d’Or for his outstanding performance last season and ultimately won the award. However, his injury forced him to watch his team’s performances from the sidelines.
During his absence, Manchester City’s performance in the Premier League declined significantly, eventually dropping to fourth place in the table. This was clearly an unexpected result for a team that had been a title contender for many years.
Rodri begins recovery training
According to media reports, Rodri has returned to the Manchester City training ground and took part in the latest group session. Although this is only part of his initial recovery, it is a positive sign.
Manchester City said that Rodri is making a gradual recovery. He is already able to perform some basic movements in training and appears to be in good physical condition, but according to Sky Sports, he is unlikely to feature in the remaining Premier League games or the FA Cup final this season.
His goal is to be available for the FIFA Club World Cup. The tournament takes place at the end of the season and if his recovery goes well, Rodri will have the opportunity to help the team win the title.
Rodri’s importance to Manchester City
As a key figure in Manchester City’s midfield, Rodri has played an extremely important role over the past few seasons, being one of the key players who helped the team win the Premier League title for four consecutive years.
To date, he has made over 260 appearances for Manchester City, helping the team win the Champions League, the FA Cup and two League Cups. It can be said that his contribution in defense and ball control is irreplaceable.
His absence has greatly reduced Manchester City’s control in midfield, especially against strong teams, as they lack a player who can stabilize the rhythm and organize attacks, which is why the fans and coaching staff are eagerly awaiting his return.
Recovery of other players
In addition to Rodri, striker Erling Haaland is also slowly returning to training. He sprained his ankle in a recent game and missed several key matches.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola said in an interview that he would give an update on Haaland’s health at the next press conference, but defenders Nathan Ake and John Stones have not yet taken part in full team training and their return dates remain uncertain.
Manchester City’s schedule ahead
Manchester City have a busy schedule in the final weeks of the season:
- Against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
- Against Southampton.
- Against Bournemouth.
- Against Fulham.
They also face Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final on May 17. These matches are crucial for Manchester City, especially the FA Cup final, which represents a significant opportunity to secure a domestic double.
Although Rodri may not be available for these games, his full recovery before the Club World Cup would greatly enhance the team’s competitiveness on the international stage.
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