Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has confirmed that midfield maestro Rodri isn't yet ready to handle the demands of playing three matches per week. The Spanish midfielder is still building his fitness after an extended injury absence as City prepare to face AS Monaco in the Champions League.
Rodri, last year's Ballon d'Or winner, spent eight months sidelined with a ruptured ACL before returning in May. His comeback hit another snag when he suffered a groin injury during the Club World Cup in July.
"Right now, in my opinion, he is not able to play three games a week at top, top level," Guardiola explained to reporters. "My feeling is he is not ready. This type of injury needs minimum one year to recover fully."
The Spanish midfielder has started just four matches this season and was notably absent from City's squad during their commanding 5-1 win over Burnley on Saturday. His availability will be crucial as City balance domestic and European competitions in the coming weeks.
Rodri's Fitness Timeline
Guardiola clarified that Rodri's current situation differs from his Club World Cup setback. "The day before Burnley he didn't feel too good. Today he feels much better so we will see. Now he is not injured," the manager noted.
This careful management of Rodri's playing time could have significant implications for City's midfield rotation. Without their defensive midfield anchor at full fitness, players like Mateo Kovačić and Rico Lewis may see increased responsibilities.
For bettors considering City's upcoming fixtures, this news suggests the champions might show occasional vulnerability in midfield during busy fixture periods. Rodri's presence has historically been a key factor in City's defensive solidity.
Silva Shines as Captain
On a more positive note, Guardiola heaped praise on Bernardo Silva ahead of their trip to Monaco. The Portuguese midfielder returns to familiar territory where he won the Ligue 1 title in 2017 before joining City.
"He cannot do better as a captain," Guardiola beamed. "He is one of the best in training, an extraordinary player, so intelligent and smart. He can play in so many positions."
Silva's leadership has been vital for City this season after being named club captain. His versatility continues to provide tactical flexibility for Guardiola, something that has made City so difficult for opponents to predict.
As City navigate this challenging period without their midfield general at full capacity, Silva's influence becomes even more crucial. The team's adaptability will be tested, particularly in high-stakes Champions League encounters where Rodri's control in midfield has often been the difference-maker.
For City fans and those following their betting odds, monitoring Rodri's gradual return to full fitness will be essential as the season progresses. His availability could significantly impact City's chances in tight contests against elite opposition.
