sportskeeda
RODRI is aiming for an impressive return to the Premier League — THIS season.
The 28-year-old midfielder was initially thought to be sidelined for the entire season after suffering an ACL tear in his right knee during a match against Arsenal in September.
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Nevertheless, the Ballon d’Or winner is reportedly ahead of his recovery schedule following surgery.
Spaniard Rodri has been diligently using the running machine and has impressed medical staff with his mobility.
Initially, he aimed for a return during the new Club World Cup set for June and July — but now there are indications he could be back on the field before the conclusion of the Premier League season.
City’s results have markedly declined without their central midfielder, managing only one victory in their last ten matches.
Manager Pep Guardiola may consider Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich as a possible short-term solution in the coming month.
The 29-year-old, who is versatile as a right-back or midfielder, would entail a £10 million investment, and Pep is well-acquainted with Kimmich, having signed him for the Allianz Arena back in 2015.
Rodri hinted that his playing time this season may not be finished when he accepted the Ballon d’Or award.
Guardiola had previously asserted that Rodri wouldn’t return until the 2024-2025 season.
Still, Rodri is now targeting Fifa’s Club World Cup taking place in the U.S. this Summer.
Four Man City stars including Haaland and Grealish ‘miss penalties against NO KEEPER’ in a bizarre training live stream
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The key player for City remarked: “The seasons are becoming longer, and this one includes the Club World Cup.
“It’s an exciting challenge to undertake, and I am determined to return this season — we’ll see when.”
In the meantime, City hope to convince Rodri to extend his contract at Etihad, which is currently set to expire in 2027.
Pep Guardiola’s challenging streak with Man City
PEP GUARDIOLA admitted to having sleepless nights as he navigates his toughest period as a manager.
Here’s a snapshot of the last ten matches for the three-time reigning Premier League champions…
Oct 30: Tottenham 2 Man City 1 – DEFEAT
Nov 2: Bournemouth 2 Man City 1 – DEFEAT
Nov 5: Sporting Lisbon 4 Man City 1 – DEFEAT
Nov 9: Brighton 2 Man City 1 – DEFEAT
Nov 23: Man City 0 Tottenham 4 – DEFEAT
Nov 26: Man City 3 Feyenoord 3 – DRAW
Dec 1: Liverpool 2 Man City 0 – DEFEAT
Dec 4: Man City 3 Nottingham Forest – WIN
Dec 7: Crystal Palace 2 Man City 2 – DRAW
Dec 11: Juventus 2 Man City 0 – DEFEAT
TOTAL – WINS 1, DRAWS 2, DEFEATS 7
Rodri joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2019 and has not dismissed the idea of returning to Spain.
Rodri stated: “Negotiating a new contract with City is not my top priority.
“I am focused on my recovery, and we’ll see what the future holds.
“I have a contract and I’m very, very happy here.
“However, I’m not closing any doors regarding a return to the Spanish league.”
