Rodri is facing another setback in his recovery from a torn ACL, which has proven to be a lengthy and challenging journey. The Manchester City midfielder, who had recently won the 2024 Ballon d’Or, sustained a knee injury that significantly hindered his 2024-25 season. After making appearances in previous matches during a cautious reintegration plan, Rodri was substituted in the FIFA Club World Cup round-of-16 match against Al-Hilal after just 47 minutes on the pitch.
Rodri's return was marked by great anticipation, as he had spent months recovering from the ACL tear he suffered in September 2024. This injury had sidelined him for nearly eight months, causing him to miss much of the previous season. Unfortunately, during the match against Al-Hilal, it was clear that his body was still not ready for the demands of competitive football. Despite having been brought on as a substitute, a groin injury forced his early exit, prompting concern over the extent of the issue.
What does this mean for Manchester City and their season ahead? With the 2025-26 Premier League season approaching, the team was counting on Rodri’s contribution in crucial matches. However, the serious nature of his groin injury raises uncertainties about his availability for the start of the league campaign. Such an injury may require weeks of rehabilitation, possibly causing him to miss key matches at a pivotal time for the club.
The exit from the Club World Cup serves as a double blow, with the defeat against Al-Hilal not only impacting City’s chances of silverware but also jeopardizing the club’s opportunity to field a fully fit Rodri at the beginning of the new season.