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Manchester City fans woke up to a good news this morning as their star midfielder and Ballon d'Or winner Rodri returned to the individual training after facing ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in September last year. In a video released by City on its official X handle, Rodri underwent some drills on the field. Spanish international, Rodri, underwent surgery after sustaining the ACL injury during a 2-2 draw at Arsenal.
After Rodri underwent surgery, there were reports of his late comeback. However, Rodri set himself an early comeback goal, stating in November that he hoped to be back in action this season. In his absence, the club had some unfortunate events when it slipped 20 points behind Liverpool in the Premier League and was eliminated from the Champions League.
Prior to the Spaniard's day out in the Manchester sun on Saturday, March 1, manager Pep Guardiola was skeptical about Rodri's return to the field. Guardiola recently stated, "The most important thing for Rodri now is to recover well. It's going well, and he feels really good, but step by step we will see." Rodri was named to City's Champions League squad in early February, but the club was eliminated by Real Madrid in the play-off stage. Meanwhile, Rodri feels good about his comeback and stated his time spent with his family. "I always thank God for everything and in this kind of moment try to be positive and maybe do all the other stuff you're not used to," he told Sky Sports.
Rodri will be aiming to return to field before conclusion of ongoing season
Rodri's photographs on the first team training pitches, running, and kicking the ball, will make any Manchester City supporter happy. The ongoing season which is going to continue for the next three months, Rodri should be able to play some minutes, ensuring his availability for the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States in June.
That is critical because Guardiola's side will have little preparation time for the 2025-26 season, and playing without Rodri will be different. Presently, City is in the fifth round of the FA Cup on Saturday playing against the Championship side Plymouth Argyle.
