Manchester City: Pep Guardiola Shares Update on Rodri and Discusses His Expected Return

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**MediaBaze Sports**

**Manchester City: Pep Guardiola Shares Update on Rodri and Discusses His Expected Return**

*By admin | April 6, 2025 | No Comments | 3 Min Read*

Pep Guardiola has provided a crucial update on midfielder Rodri and offered some clarity on when he might return to action for Manchester City. With the team navigating an unpredictable and demanding campaign, the priority has shifted to clinching qualification for the upcoming UEFA Champions League. Once dominant in the Premier League, City has quietly relinquished its hold on the title—a position they had firmly held for the previous four years.

The team’s decline in form coincides strongly with the prolonged absence of Rodri, who has been out since September with a serious knee injury. His time away from the squad has had a noticeable impact, with many citing it as a major reason behind the club’s struggles. Guardiola’s ambitions of securing another Premier League crown this season have taken a hit in the absence of his key midfielder.

Supporters, naturally eager for updates, had received little information for some time. Now, Guardiola has broken his silence with a guarded yet hopeful update. In an interview with Super Sport, he acknowledged the severity of the injury, explaining that Rodri has missed close to eight months of football. *“It was a difficult injury,”* Guardiola stated. *“I would be delighted to have him back soon, but we must be careful.”*

Although the idea of having Rodri available for the closing stages of the campaign is tempting, Guardiola made it clear that there would be no shortcuts in his recovery process. He suggested that the team is already planning with the next season in mind. Rodri has resumed light training, signaling progress in his recovery, but the main concern remains ensuring his complete fitness rather than forcing a quick comeback that might risk a setback.

The significance of Rodri’s absence becomes evident when analyzing the team’s performance data. With him on the field, Manchester City has enjoyed a winning rate of 74.1%, recording 129 victories, 26 draws, and just 19 defeats. In his absence, that success rate falls to 61.9%, with only 13 wins, 1 draw, and 7 losses. These stats highlight his central role in the lineup and solidify his standing among the elite midfielders in world football.

Guardiola suggested that Rodri’s comeback will feel akin to acquiring a major new player for the 2025/26 season, reflecting the club’s intentions to retool the squad and push for a renewed title charge. The key message is clear: though Rodri is nearing a return, the club will prioritize his long-term fitness over short-term gains.