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In a major development, Manchester City is getting ready to field midfielder Rodri for the next UEFA Champions League knockout rounds. This ruling follows first worries that the Spanish international could miss the rest of the season owing to a bad knee injury suffered September 2024.
During a Premier League game with Arsenal on September 24, 2024, Rodri sustained a cruciate ligament injury. The seriousness of the injury called for instant operation, and preliminary evaluations pointed to a possibility of missing the entire season. Manager Pep Guardiola admitted the seriousness of the situation and said, “When you are without the best midfielder in the world for a long time, it is a big blow. Still, finding an answer is my responsibility.”
Recent studies show, on the other hand, that Rodri is on course ahead of recovery. Participating in gentle training sessions, the midfielder has been noticed reinforcing hope for his possible comeback. Manchester City is thinking of registering him for the knockout stage of the Champions League in view of this optimistic path with expectation that he will be able to help in the last rounds of the tournament.
The updated Champions League squad submission deadline is on February 6, 2025. UEFA rules let teams register for the knockout rounds with as many as three new players. Given how important Rodri is for the midfield balance of the team, his inclusion is considered a tactical step to strengthen the squad’s depth and experience.
Manchester City is set to face a challenging opponent in the Champions League play-off round, with a matchup against European powerhouse, Real Madrid.
While Rodri’s exact return date remains uncertain, the club’s decision to include him in the Champions League squad reflects a blend of optimism and strategic foresight. His potential return would not only enhance the team’s midfield stability but also provide a significant morale boost as they navigate the crucial stages of the season.
