Manchester City’s midfield general is aiming to return for the FIFA Club World Cup | OneFootball

Manchester City’s midfield general Rodri is ruled out for the rest of the season after suffering an ACL injury in the first half of Manchester City’s 2-all draw with Arsenal. Pep Guardiola has been forced to turn to a host of players to fill the void left by Rodri’s absence. But in a new interview, Manchester City’s midfield general is targeting a return late this season from the knee injury he suffered.

Speaking with El Partidazo de COPE Rodri revealed that he intends to return late this season. With the FIFA Club World Cup to take place at the end of the season that does seem like a realistic goal. Rodri has set himself a goal of returning for the tournament. He explained: “I have in mind to play this season. Now the seasons are getting longer and the (FIFA Club) World Cup ends on July 13, I have in mind to return this year, as a challenge.”

It does appear unlikely that Rodri will feature at all this season. Given the typical timeframe for an ACL injury, that appears to be unrealistic. But with the expanded FIFA World Club World Cup set to take place after this season perhaps Rodri could feature then. That doesn’t seem to be out of the realms of possibility. But it is clear that Manchester City will take no risks with their midfield general. Nor should they given his importance to the world champions.

Rodri does appear to be in good spirits as he recovers from ACL surgery. But his return is months away but it is good to see that he has the goal of returning for the FIFA Club World Cup at the conclusion of the 24/25 season.