Rodri Out for the Season After ACL Injury, But the Ballon d’Or Winner Makes a Comeback to Manchester City Training Ground
Rodri is back at Manchester City for the first time since undergoing surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, which has ruled him out for the rest of the season. The 28-year-old midfielder arrived at the City Football Academy (CFA) on Friday to visit his teammates and staff, bringing along the Ballon d’Or trophy he won earlier this month. He will proudly showcase his prestigious award to the Etihad crowd before City’s match against Tottenham on Saturday.
Rodri made history by becoming the first Manchester City player to win the prestigious individual honor. Since undergoing surgery in Madrid following his injury in September, he had stayed with family in Spain instead of returning to Manchester.
Pep Guardiola expressed his joy at seeing the midfielder back ahead of the crucial game as City aims to end a four-match losing streak against Spurs. He also confirmed that Rodri would be back at the CFA in January to intensify his rehabilitation.
“It’s nice to see him back. He had surgery in Madrid and stayed out with family for the first steps,” said Guardiola. “In January he will come here to continue his recovery, but I hear from the doctors that everything is going well. His mood is great. It’s unique in our club to achieve such an amazing award and share it with our people.”
Rodri sustained the season-ending injury in a 2-2 draw with Arsenal at the end of September. The absence of the club’s key player has been a significant challenge for Guardiola, with further complications this weekend due to an injury suffered by Mateo Kovacic on international duty.
