Rodri faces long recovery following a serious knee injury

In Spain, Rodri, the Ballon d'Or-winning midfielder of Manchester City, has faced significant challenges this season after suffering a serious knee injury in September 2024. This injury kept him sidelined, leading him to miss a majority of the 2024-25 football season. Just last month, Rodri made his return to the pitch, participating briefly in Manchester City's penultimate Premier League game against Bournemouth, where he played for seven minutes. His comeback continued with two substitute appearances in the recent Club World Cup matches against Wydad Casablanca and Al Ain. Despite his return, Rodri acknowledges he is still far from regaining full fitness. He expressed feelings of happiness and excitement to be back playing but also recognized that a complete recovery would take several more months to achieve. The midfielder remained focused and strong throughout his recovery, delighting in the opportunity to play in such a prestigious tournament. Rodri has also previously voiced concerns over the heavy match schedule players face, particularly with the additions in tournament formats like the expanded Champions League and Club World Cup, fearing player burnout. While he had contemplated the possibility of players striking due to these concerns before his injury, he refrained from expressing similar sentiments currently, opting instead to focus on his individual goals and the excitement of rejoining his team. Rodri views the tournament as an amazing opportunity for his return.