Pep Guardiola has outlined a patient, long-term strategy for the return of Manchester City's midfield linchpin Rodri, stating the player could be back in action within weeks but may not reach his peak performance until next season.
A Meticulous Recovery Process
The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner has endured a torrid 15 months, missing most of last campaign with a serious knee injury. His attempts to return this term have been plagued by setbacks, most notably a hamstring problem suffered in City's victory at Brentford on October 5. Since that match, Rodri has managed just one minute of football across 11 games.
Guardiola confirmed the Spain international will miss Saturday's clash with Sunderland and is likely absent for the crucial Champions League trip to Real Madrid next week. The manager emphasised a new, cautious approach to avoid further relapse. "We have to be more cautious to make sure it is safe," Guardiola stated.
Guardiola's Long-Term Vision
Despite the immediate need for his world-class midfielder, Guardiola's focus is firmly on Rodri's future. The City boss is prioritising a full and sustainable recovery over a rushed comeback that could lead to another lengthy absence.
"I want desperately for him to come back – in Madrid and the next ones – but then not six more weeks out. It makes no sense. I want to be sure," Guardiola explained. He has advised the player that while the final step is frustrating, patience is paramount: "don't make one step forward to make 1,000 steps backwards."
Looking ahead, Guardiola highlighted the bigger picture, including a future World Cup and multiple seasons: "As much we recover him, it will not be for now, it will be for the end of the season and next season. That is the main thing."
The Immeasurable Impact of Rodri's Presence
City's vulnerability without their midfield anchor was starkly illustrated in their chaotic 5-4 win at Fulham's Craven Cottage on Tuesday. Guardiola believes Rodri's influence transcends his on-ball actions, providing a calming, authoritative presence that elevates the entire team.
"Rodri is another level of player, another level," Guardiola asserted. "Just his presence, not even touching the ball, the other 10 players would feel safe, better. They'd play better even if he doesn't touch the ball, just for the fact that he is there."
With Rodri now participating in training sessions on the pitch, the finish line is in sight. Guardiola's final message offers hope to fans and a timeline for the squad: "Hopefully, in a few weeks, he can start to be with us." However, the wait for the complete, Ballon d'Or-winning version of Rodri may require patience until the 2025/26 campaign.
