Rodri Provides Fitness Update as Hugo Viana Assesses January Transfer Market

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has delivered an honest assessment of his current fitness levels after returning to regular first-team action following a difficult spell plagued by injuries.

The 29-year-old completed the full 90 minutes during City’s 2-0 derby defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday, as goals from Bryan Mbuemo and Patrick Dorgu ended the Blues’ 14-game unbeaten run in all competitions.

Rodri has only recently re-established himself in Pep Guardiola’s starting XI, having spent much of the last 15 months sidelined by recurring fitness setbacks following a ruptured ACL sustained in a 2-2 draw with Arsenal in September 2024.

Although the Ballon d’Or winner briefly returned to action at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States last summer, further injury issues halted his momentum. A subsequent setback delayed his involvement at the start of the 2025-26 campaign.

Rodri did manage to put together a short run of appearances in September 2025, before suffering another blow after pulling his hamstring early in Manchester City’s 1-0 away victory over Brentford in October.

Following that injury, Guardiola and his coaching staff opted for a cautious approach, protecting the midfielder from being rushed back into action amid concerns over long-term fitness.

During Rodri’s absence, Nico Gonzalez stepped up and impressed in the holding midfield role, providing City with stability and depth as the Spaniard continued his recovery.

Now back in contention and building rhythm, Rodri offered a positive update on his condition while speaking to Manchester City’s official channels after the defeat at Old Trafford.

“Yeah, ready to go and I’m very happy to be on the pitch every single day. Every day I feel better, so yeah, happy and desire to help the team in all senses,” the Villarreal academy graduate said.

Manchester City remain winless in the Premier League in 2026, having drawn against Sunderland, Chelsea, and Brighton before the loss to Manchester United dented their title aspirations.

Rodri’s fitness is expected to play a decisive role in City’s push for silverware during the second half of the season, with Gonzalez also anticipated to return from injury in the coming weeks.

Pep Guardiola will be eager to keep both midfielders fit and available as City attempt to reverse their recent domestic struggles and mount a late challenge for a fifth Premier League title in six seasons.

Conclusion

Rodri’s gradual return to full fitness provides a timely boost for Manchester City at a critical stage of the campaign. While recent results have raised concerns, the Spaniard’s influence in midfield could prove pivotal as the club looks to stabilise performances and remain competitive across all competitions.

FAQ

• Q: How long has Rodri been dealing with injuries?
  A: Rodri has struggled with recurring fitness issues over the last 15 months following an ACL injury in September 2024.
• Q: Is Rodri fully fit now?
  A: While still building match sharpness, Rodri has stated he feels better every day and is ready to help the team.
• Q: Who replaced Rodri during his absence?
  A: Nico Gonzalez stepped in as a holding midfielder and performed strongly while Rodri was sidelined.
• Q: How important is Rodri to Manchester City’s season?
  A: Rodri’s form and availability are expected to be crucial as City chase silverware and aim to recover their Premier League momentum.