Rodri return to fitness signals hope for Manchester City midfield
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Rodri return to fitness has been one of the most closely watched comeback stories in Manchester City’s recent campaign. After sustaining a serious knee injury last September, the Spanish midfielder was sidelined for the majority of the 2024–25 season. Now back on the pitch, Rodri is gradually building minutes — but he openly admits that he’s still far from his peak form. His recent return in the Premier League and at the Club World Cup marks a turning point in a long and difficult recovery.
- Rodri returns after a lengthy injury layoff dating back to September 2024
- The Man City midfielder admits he’s not yet close to full fitness
- Recent Club World Cup appearances mark key steps in his recovery
- Rodri remains focused, positive, and eager to regain top form
The Ballon d’Or-winning anchorman featured briefly against Bournemouth last month, clocking in a cautious seven-minute cameo. Since then, he has made two more substitute appearances during City’s Club World Cup matches against Wydad Casablanca and Al Ain. While his presence is a major boost to Pep Guardiola’s squad, Rodri himself remains realistic about the journey ahead, emphasizing that full match fitness is still months away.
“I feel strong and incredibly happy to be back,” Rodri said. “It’s been a long process, but I stayed focused throughout. This tournament is a great place to restart.” His emotional return underscores both the physical and mental challenges faced by elite players during long-term injury spells. He credited a strong mindset and steady support as crucial elements in navigating the months of rehabilitation.
Rodri had previously been vocal about player burnout, even hinting at strike action if the congested calendar continued unchecked. However, during this comeback, he chose to sidestep that conversation, instead focusing on the positive — the chance to return in a global tournament. “If this tournament didn’t happen, maybe I’d be on holiday. But for me, this is an amazing opportunity to play again at the top level.”
His steady reintegration into the squad may also influence how fans and pundits approach their Premier League Predictions for the rest of the year. While Rodri may not yet be back to full capacity, his presence alone could tip the balance in key matches. What’s clear is that Manchester City — and Rodri himself — are playing the long game when it comes to a Premier League Predictions resurgence.
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