Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has given fans fresh hope that midfield star Rodri could make an unexpected return before the season wraps up.
The Ballon d’Or winner has been out of action since September after suffering a serious knee injury against Arsenal, but recent training footage has sparked optimism.
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The club shared clips of Rodri working out on Friday, just hours before City cruised past Plymouth Argyle to book their spot in the FA Cup quarter-finals.
While no official timeline has been set, Guardiola has, for the first time, hinted that the Spanish midfielder could play again this season – and maybe even feature in the FIFA Club World Cup in June.
“It’s been five or six months, and we’re taking it step by step,” Guardiola said. “We won’t make any reckless decisions to rush him back.
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He’s not close to returning yet, but he’s touching the ball, feeling confident and happy. I didn’t expect him back before the season ends, not even for the Club World Cup – but now, maybe it’s possible.”
Rodri’s absence has been a major setback for City, who currently sit fourth in the Premier League, trailing Liverpool by 20 points after eight league defeats. His potential comeback could provide a massive boost as the club fights to turn their season around.
🚨🔵 Pep Guardiola: “Rodri looks good! I could not expect before… but maybe BEFORE end of the season he's going to help us!”.@BeanymanSports 🎥 pic.twitter.com/LHDuo9P4rJ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 2, 2025
More Injury Concerns for City
Guardiola also gave an update on the club’s ongoing defensive woes, revealing that Nathan Aké is undergoing further tests for a lingering issue that has troubled him all season.
“He struggles sometimes with his feet,” Guardiola admitted. “It’s been like this all season with our central defenders.”
Aké, who has managed just 18 appearances this season, was forced off at halftime against Plymouth. The injury-plagued City defense also missed John Stones and Manuel Akanji in the FA Cup victory, adding to Guardiola’s selection headaches.
With key players sidelined, City faces a tough battle in both domestic and international competitions. But if Rodri can make an early comeback, it could be a game-changer for the defending champions.
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