Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has revealed that Rodri is back in contention for a starting role in the team, but is unsure of the durability of the midfielder as he continues his recovery from injury.
The 2024 ballon d’Or winner suffered an ACL tear in 2024 that ruled him out of majority of the campaign, as he returned to action towards the end of the season.
The Spanish midfielder’s minutes has been managed by Pep Guardiola this season, as he continues to make his way back to full fitness after having surgery on his knee.
He has missed the Cityzens last two matches, against Huddersfield in the Carabao Cup and last weekend’s 5-1 win over Burnley in the EPL.
Rodri missed both games due to a slight discomfort in his knee, but has returned to training and is ready to play a role for his side against AS Monaco on Wednesday.
Speaking ahead of the clash, Guardiola expressed doubts over the midfielder’s availability for most of their matches.
“Now he’s not injured. He feels much better than the game before Burnley. He had a long injury. The day before Burnley he did not feel fine”, the Spaniard said.
“The week before was so demanding with United, Napoli, especially Arsenal.
“And right now, if you ask me, my feeling right now is not able to play three games a week at top, top, top level. Top intensity. My feeling right now is that he’s not ready.”
Man City visit the Stade Louis II on Wednesday night, for their second UCL match of the season after opening their campaign with a 2-0 win over Napoli.
Guardiola eyes improvement in the current campaign
Despite their poor form last season, when they ended the season without and major silverware and suffered early exit from the UCL, Manchester City remains one of the favorites to win this season’s competition.
The Cityzens lost their experienced midfielders and goalkeeper in the summer, but signed young and exciting footballers as their replacement.
A win on opening day was a perfect start, while a win on the second matchday will send a stern warning to their rivals.
However, it is certain Guardiola seeks improvement from his squad, as he hopes to banish the disappointment of last season and turn them back into winners.
