Credits: IMAGO / Action Plus

Rodri Returns to Training After Injury Break: When Could He Return to the Field?

Credits: IMAGO / Action Plus

Manchester City fans have received a much-needed boost this week. Key midfielder Rodri returned to first-team training at the City Football Academy. The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner has endured a turbulent year with injuries. How his latest recovery could not have come at a more crucial stage for Man City.

Rodri has been sidelined for over three weeks after sustaining a hamstring injury in the 1-0 Premier League win against Brentford before the October international break. The new injury followed a string of fitness issues over the past year.

🚨 Guardiola: “There’s no timeframe for Rodri’s return yet. He’s not ready yet”.

“For sure he’s getting better, training with us partially. But after what happened two times, prior incidents in muscular, we're going to see how he evolves this week”. pic.twitter.com/wKgBA196EM
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 28, 2025

This includes an ACL rupture last season that kept him out for several months. His absence has been felt deeply. City have been struggling for midfield balance and control in their recent games. This includes their 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa that ended their five-match unbeaten run.

Pep Guardiola Urges Patience with Rodri Return

Speaking to the media ahead of City’s EFL Cup clash against Swansea City, Pep Guardiola confirmed with updates on Rodri. He said that while Rodri has rejoined training sessions, he is still not fully fit to feature. Speaking to the media in the pre-match press conference, he said:

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“(Rodri) still is not ready. Getting better, training with us partially, but of course, after what happened two times with his muscular injuries, we’re going to see how he evolves this week.” The coach was further pressed on a possible return date

However, Guardiola remained cautious as he added, “No, hopefully soon but not yet.” The Manchester City boss emphasized that the club’s medical staff are taking a careful approach. He mentioned that they’re prioritizing Rodri’s long-term recovery after previous setbacks.

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What Lies Ahead for Manchester City

Man City’s upcoming schedule makes Rodri’s situation even more significant. The Premier League champions face Swansea City in the EFL Cup before hosting Bournemouth on November 2 and Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on November 5. Guardiola will need to rely on alternatives.

Mateo Kovacic, Rico Lewis, or young Nico Gonzalez could fill the void in the meantime. While City are yet to put a date on Rodri’s return, signs of progress are encouraging. His gradual reintegration into training suggests a comeback could be on the horizon. However, it’s clear that the club will not rush Rodri to take to the field.

Manchester City

Pep Guardiola

Rodri

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.