Rodri is determined to make an unexpected return to action this season, despite being initially ruled out by Manchester City after suffering a serious knee injury. The 28-year-old midfielder tore his ACL during a 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium in September. Following the injury, City’s medical team confirmed that he would be sidelined for the remainder of 2024, with a possible return in the following campaign. However, Rodri, in a recent interview on The Rest Is Football Podcast, revealed that he has set himself the goal of returning to the pitch before the end of this season.
Rodri acknowledged the challenges of his recovery but remained focused on a positive outlook. “My target is to come back this season,” he said, emphasizing that maintaining a hopeful mindset is crucial for his rehabilitation process. The midfielder made it clear that he will not rush his recovery, as he does not want to make any mistakes that could risk his long-term health. Instead, Rodri is aiming for a return within the next six to seven months, although he is relying on his physiotherapists to guide him on the timeline. His mentality, he explained, is about keeping his options open and being determined to overcome the adversity he faces.
In a season that has already seen significant personal achievements for Rodri, including being named Spain’s second-ever Ballon d’Or winner, his commitment to returning to action serves as another testament to his resilience. The award, which Rodri received in October, was a recognition of his outstanding performances for both club and country over the past year. However, the decision was not without controversy. Real Madrid, whose forward Vinícius Júnior was a strong contender for the award, chose not to attend the Ballon d’Or ceremony in Paris. This move sparked debate, with Rodri expressing his belief that sportsmanship involves both winning and losing with grace.
Reflecting on his own moment of triumph, Rodri explained that he understood the individual choices of others but felt strongly that the Ballon d’Or is not just about an individual’s talent, but rather a recognition of an entire year’s worth of performances. “In sport and in life, it’s important to win, but I think even more it’s about how to lose with respect,” he said. Despite the absence of some key figures, Rodri remained focused on the positive aspects of his achievement, noting how meaningful it was to be surrounded by his club and family members who supported him. For him, the recognition was a reflection of his dedication and hard work over the past year.
While Rodri’s on-field contributions have made him a vital player for Manchester City, he also took a moment to share his thoughts on his future beyond football. At present, he is not keen on pursuing a coaching career when he eventually retires. Comparing his current lifestyle to that of coaches, he noted the constant travel and demanding schedule that comes with a managerial role. Though he admires the work of City’s manager Pep Guardiola and other coaches, Rodri is not convinced that such a life is something he wants to pursue after his playing career ends. He expressed a preference for the more relaxed lifestyle he imagines for himself, perhaps in a role similar to that of Txiki Begiristain, City’s sporting director. Rodri jokingly referred to Begiristain’s “clean and relaxed” life, signaling his interest in a post-football career that does not involve the pressures of coaching.
For now, Rodri is focused on his recovery, aiming to defy the expectations set by City’s medical team. His commitment to returning this season showcases his mental strength and determination to bounce back from a significant injury. Despite the hurdles he faces, the Spaniard is hopeful that his next chapter on the pitch will come sooner than anticipated, continuing his journey as one of the world’s best midfielders.
