Rodri Set to Miss Start of Season After Injury Setback

 

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has revealed that midfielder Rodri is facing another spell on the sidelines after suffering a fresh injury setback. The 29-year-old Spain international missed the majority of the 2024-25 season due to a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament injury sustained last September. He returned briefly at the end of last season, making a substitute appearance in City’s penultimate Premier League match against Bournemouth. Rodri also played during the summer at the Club World Cup in the United States, but he was forced off in extra time of their last-16 defeat to Al-Hilal with what is believed to be a groin problem. Guardiola said that although Rodri has returned to light training in recent days, he is unlikely to be “really fit” until after the September international break. City will start their Premier League campaign against Wolves on 16 August before facing Tottenham and Brighton. Guardiola stressed that the priority is to ensure Rodri fully recovers and avoids any further setbacks. The midfielder will likely feature for limited minutes early in the season if he is pain-free.

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Rodri’s latest injury means Manchester City will begin their title defence without their influential midfield anchor at full fitness. The Spaniard’s ability to control matches and protect the defence has been key to City’s recent success, making his absence a significant challenge for Guardiola. Without him, the team will need to rely more heavily on other midfielders to maintain balance and tempo in the opening matches. This could offer opportunities for backup players or new signings to prove themselves. The injury history is a concern for both player and club. Rodri’s long layoff last season already limited his involvement, and the additional groin issue picked up against Al-Hilal has disrupted his pre-season preparations. Guardiola emphasised the importance of avoiding a rushed return, explaining that playing through pain could cause more serious damage. The manager’s approach will be cautious, aiming to reintegrate Rodri gradually rather than risk losing him for an extended period again. City fans will be eager to see their Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder back in peak form. However, patience will be necessary, with his full return expected only after the September international break, by which time City will have played three important league games.

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