Ballon d’Or Winner Rodri Eyes Surprise Comeback This Season After Serious Injury
Rodri has delivered a major boost to Manchester City and boss Pep Guardiola by revealing he aims to return to action this season despite a serious knee injury. The Ballon d’Or winner has been sidelined since tearing his ACL in a match against Arsenal on September 22. Even with City’s squad depth, the absence of the influential Spanish midfielder has been heavily felt. City is currently enduring a four-game losing streak — the longest of Guardiola’s career, both at City and in his stints with Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
Initially, Guardiola suggested Rodri would likely not be fit until the start of the next season. However, the 28-year-old has set a personal target to return before the current campaign ends, aiming to be ready in time for FIFA’s Club World Cup in the United States, scheduled for June and July. Rodri said, “The seasons are getting longer and this one has the Club World Cup. It is good to have a challenge and I have it in my head to return this season — we’ll see when.”
City Fans Hope for Rodri’s Extended Stay
City fans are hopeful for Rodri’s continued presence at the Etihad Stadium, where his contract runs until 2027. By then, he would complete an eight-year tenure with the club. However, following his Ballon d’Or win as the world’s best player, the former Atletico Madrid star is in high demand, and he hasn’t ruled out a return to La Liga.
“Renewal with City is not my priority right now,” Rodri admitted. “I want to recover and we’ll see. I have a contract, and I’m very, very happy. But I see the Spanish league, and I’m not closing doors.”
Guardiola’s Future a Factor for Rodri
Like many of City’s players, Rodri’s next career steps may depend on Guardiola’s plans. The title-winning manager’s contract ends this season, and he has yet to confirm his future intentions. Reflecting on Guardiola’s long tenure, Rodri noted, “When I signed, I was told he would leave the following year… and we are still like that five years later.”
Rodri’s resilience and optimism bring hope to City fans that he could make a triumphant return and help City finish the season strong.
