After months on the sidelines, Manchester City fans have a reason to cheer.
Rodri, the midfield powerhouse, is set to start his first Premier League game in nearly a year as City travel to Brighton on Sunday.
The Spanish midfielder’s return marks a pivotal moment for Pep Guardiola’s squad as they look to regain momentum early in the season.
Comeback After a Serious Injury
Rodri missed most of last season due to a torn ACL, an injury that kept him off the pitch for several months.
He did manage a return toward the end of the campaign, even featuring in the Club World Cup.
Unfortunately, a minor setback in City’s final match of the competition meant Guardiola had to hold him back, saying the midfielder wouldn’t be fully fit until after the September international break.
Boost for City Fans
Despite the cautious approach, Rodri made an early return last weekend, coming on as a substitute in the 2-0 loss to Tottenham.
Now, seeing his name in the starting XI for the trip to Brighton is a huge boost for fans and the squad alike.
Guardiola didn’t hide his excitement, telling Sky Sports:
“You don’t have to be a manager to realise how important he is.
He was nominated the best player in the world last season, so that’s why he’s vital—everybody knows it!”
A Year Away from Top-Flight Action
Rodri’s last start in the Premier League was a 2-2 draw against Arsenal last September, the game in which he sustained the serious injury after a collision with Thomas Partey.
His return represents both a morale and tactical lift for City as they navigate a challenging early season.
Goalkeeping Shake-Up
While Rodri’s comeback headlines the weekend, there are questions elsewhere in the squad.
Goalkeeper Ederson remains on the bench, with James Trafford continuing as City’s starter in the Premier League.
City are reportedly exploring options should they decide to part ways with Ederson, including interest in PSG’s Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Transfer Talk Around the Etihad
Ederson, now in his ninth season at City, has attracted attention from Turkish clubs, with Galatasaray’s £8.5m bid already rejected.
Fenerbahce have now reportedly entered the race for the 32-year-old.
Meanwhile, PSG might consider selling Donnarumma, 26, whose opportunities at the French club have been limited following the arrival of Lucas Chevalier, who is valued for his footwork and distribution.
Looking Ahead
Rodri’s presence on the pitch is expected to strengthen City’s midfield control and provide Guardiola with a vital link between defense and attack.
As City head to the Amex Stadium, fans will be watching closely to see if their midfield general can help turn early-season promise into results.
