Pep Guardiola has underlined the gap between Rodri’s current fitness levels and the standards that saw the Spaniard crowned Ballon d’Or winner, as the Manchester City midfielder continues his return from a long-term ACL injury.
Rodri’s Road Back
The 29-year-old missed nine months of competitive action after suffering an ACL injury against Arsenal in September 2024. He collected the prestigious Ballon d’Or award in November of that year while still on crutches, a moment that highlighted both his brilliance and the void left by his absence in City’s midfield.
Having returned with cameo appearances at the end of last season, Rodri faced further setbacks over the summer during the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. His full comeback only began in earnest this campaign, with recent starts against Brighton, Manchester United, and Napoli showing glimpses of his trademark control in midfield.
Guardiola’s Perspective
Speaking after City’s 2-0 win over Napoli in the UEFA Champions League, Guardiola admitted that while Rodri’s confidence and intelligence remain undiminished, his physical condition is still a work in progress.
“Not yet. Confidence he (Rodri) has because he has his own self-confidence, so so high,” Guardiola explained. “But the knee is completely different to how you think. And the knee needs his process. As much as he’s patient with that, and we are patient with him, he will be back.”
Guardiola stressed the importance of careful management, pointing to past setbacks when Rodri rushed his recovery. The midfielder was substituted after an hour against Napoli, with Sunday’s clash against Arsenal looming large.
Importance to Manchester City
Rodri’s absence last season left City exposed in midfield, forcing tactical adjustments and highlighting his irreplaceable role. His controlled passing, reading of the game, and defensive stability remain essential to Guardiola’s system, and his gradual reintegration is viewed as key to City’s hopes of competing across all fronts this season.
What Comes Next
While Rodri has already shown flashes of the dominance that won him world football’s highest individual honour, Guardiola and City’s medical staff are determined to prevent any relapse. The next few weeks will likely see the midfielder carefully rotated, with his long-term recovery prioritised over short-term demands.
FAQ
- What injury did Rodri suffer? He sustained an ACL injury against Arsenal in September 2024.
- When did Rodri return? He made his first appearance in May 2025, with regular starts returning this season.
- What did Guardiola say about Rodri? Guardiola said Rodri remains confident but needs patience as his knee continues to recover.
- Will Rodri play against Arsenal? Guardiola has not confirmed, but his minutes are being carefully managed ahead of Sunday’s clash.
Conclusion
Rodri’s return has already strengthened Manchester City, but Pep Guardiola has stressed the need for caution as the midfielder works back to his Ballon d’Or-winning levels. The coming months will be crucial, both for his individual recovery and for City’s ambitions in England and Europe.
