Rodri and Haaland Back in Training But Guardiola Urges Caution

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has confirmed that both Rodri and Erling Haaland have resumed training following their respective injury setbacks — but he remains cautious about rushing either player back into competitive action.

Rodri, who suffered a knee injury during City’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal in September 2024, has been sidelined for several months, undergoing surgery in Madrid and enduring a meticulous rehabilitation process. Meanwhile, Haaland sustained an ankle injury during City’s FA Cup quarter-final victory over Bournemouth in March, missing several Premier League matches and the semi-final win over Nottingham Forest at Wembley.

Rodri Feels “Really Good” But Comeback Will Be Gradual

Now aged 28, Rodri has been out of action for nearly eight months, with Guardiola highlighting the seriousness of the injury and the careful steps being taken to ensure a full and stable recovery.

“It was a difficult injury. It was seven months to eleven months more or less the doctors said,” Guardiola revealed.

“He feels really good, every day he’s making sessions and sessions but we have to make the step to avoid making a step backwards and being injured again.”

The Spanish international, who was pivotal in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, has been a visible figure around the City Football Academy (CFA), supporting his teammates from the sidelines while working on his return.

“The moment the physio and doctor say that Rodri can start to play minutes and after that he will start to play minutes,” Guardiola added.

“That’s why you need to be careful. Important is one training session and then another one and every time he feels better and better.”

Haaland “Getting Better” But Unlikely to Face Wolves

As for Erling Haaland, Guardiola confirmed that the Norwegian striker is “getting better” following the ankle injury that has kept him out since March. While he is now back training on the pitch, the manager does not expect him to feature against Wolves this Friday in the Premier League.

“We are really pleased Erling is back and Rodri is back in the training sessions,” Guardiola said.

The prolific forward has missed four league games and one FA Cup tie but could be targeting a return in time for the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace or the final league matches as City push to secure Champions League qualification.

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Guardiola Prioritizing Player Safety Ahead of Critical Run-In

With the season entering its decisive stretch, Guardiola is balancing the urgency of the fixtures ahead with the long-term health of his players. Both Rodri and Haaland are key figures in City’s domestic and European ambitions, but the manager insists their comeback will not be rushed.

“When the doctor says Rodri is stable and he can play, after that he is going to come back,” Guardiola concluded.

City fans will be encouraged by their return to the pitch — but patience will be vital as both stars ease back into contention.