Rodri's Return to Fitness Delayed, City's Next Three Games in Jeopardy

Strategic Insights -

Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who missed most of last season due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury, is unlikely to be fully fit until after the September international break. Manager Pep Guardiola has expressed concerns about the midfielder's comeback, citing a groin problem that emerged during a substitute appearance at the Club World Cup. Guardiola emphasized the importance of avoiding further injury, stating that 90 minutes of play for Rodri this season is unlikely, at least initially.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rodri's fitful comeback was interrupted by a groin problem during a substitute appearance at the Club World Cup against Al-Hilal in extra time.
  • The midfielder has trained better in the last few days but is unlikely to be "really fit" until after the September international break.
  • Rodri, along with Phil Foden and Mateo Kovacic, was left out of Manchester City's travelling squad for a friendly against Palermo in Sicily due to injury concerns.
  • Guardiola has stated that he wants to avoid further injury to Rodri and will try desperately to prevent this.
  • The three players in question may miss Manchester City's first three Premier League games of the season.
  • Kovacic is expected to be injured until September or October, but Guardiola hopes he will return earlier.
  • Foden's availability for next weekend's Premier League opener depends on the problem he's experiencing, according to Guardiola.

Statistics:

  • 90 minutes of play for Rodri this season is unlikely, at least initially, according to Guardiola.
  • Rodri is expected to miss Manchester City's first three Premier League games of the season.
  • The September international break is a target date for Rodri's full recovery and return to fitness.
  • Rodri has trained better in the last few days but still needs more time to reach full physical condition.

Sources:

  • [Peter Byrne/PA] via Getty Images