Man City star Rodri issues injury update – and sets a target for return to fitness after suffering serious knee problem in September

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has provided an update on his anterior cruciate ligament injury and set a target for his return. 

Rodri, 28, suffered the problem during City’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal in September and Pep Guardiola later revealed he would miss the remainder of the season. 

The Spainard has been integral to City’s success over recent years, with the reigning Premier League champions struggling in his absence. 

Despite the severity of the injury he suffered, Rodri is aiming to return to action later this season but remains cautious. 

‘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,’ Rodri said speaking on COPE. 

Rodri suffered the problem during City’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal in September

‘I’ve already started walking and I’m feeling better than I thought… Gavi used to say: “I need to play football”. At my age you see it differently, you have time to rest and recover well…’ 

Rodri became the became the first defensive midfielder in history to win the Ballon d’Or last month following success with both City and Spain, controversially finishing ahead of Real Madrid star Vinicius Jnr. 

He added: I won #BallonDor because of consistency, which is the most difficult thing in football. I was the most consistent player in the season.’

In Rodri’s absence, City have lost four games in a row, with recent defeats against Tottenham, Bournemouth, Sporting Lisbon and Brighton. 

The Cityzens currently set second in the Premier League table, five points adrift of leaders Liverpool following their defeat at the Amex Stadium on Saturday. 

Pep Guardiola’s men have struggled in the Spainard’s abence, recently losing four in a row

Guardiola conceded that the title may already be out of City’s reach, saying: ‘Maybe after seven years winning six Premier Leagues, maybe one year another team deserves it,’. 

‘There is always a first time in life. Normally, people lose games. This is my challenge. I love a challenge. I won’t step back. More than ever, I want to do it. When my players come back, I have no doubt that we will be back at our best,’ the City boss added.