Pep Guardiola Says Rodri Is Close to Returning to His Best Form
Pep Guardiola celebrates Rodri’s return to his best level after 18 months of injuries and physical setbacks. The Spanish midfielder is becoming a key figure again for City while speculation about his future continues to grow.
Pep Guardiola confirms Rodri’s full recovery
Pep Guardiola, manager of Manchester City, did not hide his satisfaction with the improvement of Rodri Hernández. After suffering a serious ACL injury in September 2024 and dealing with several setbacks afterward, the Spanish midfielder has finally started to regain the consistency that once made him one of the team’s most important players.
Speaking in a press conference, Guardiola said: “Finally it’s happening, like we wanted for a long time when he came back. He’s becoming the player he was again by playing, playing and playing.”
The manager’s words reflect the relief inside the club and the importance of having Rodri at full strength as City prepare for a demanding schedule that includes the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup and other competitions.
Rodri’s comeback has been far from easy. During the first half of the season, recurring fitness issues and muscle problems limited his involvement. However, since the start of 2026, the Spaniard has played in every City match except the final Champions League group-stage clash against Galatasaray, where he was suspended.
According to performance experts, maintaining consistent playing time after a serious injury like Rodri’s is crucial to fully regaining form and confidence. Guardiola emphasized this point, stating: “Step by step he is getting better and better. Everybody knows it.”
Tactical impact and squad competition
Rodri’s return has also created ripple effects within the squad. Nico González, who stepped up during Rodri’s absence, has seen his playing time significantly reduced. Since February, he has started only twice and has not featured in the last three matches.
Guardiola stressed the importance of using the entire squad due to the intense fixture list.
“If we don’t use all the players available, it will be impossible to maintain the rhythm we want,” the Spanish coach explained.
Uncertain future and transfer speculation
Despite the positive developments on the pitch, Rodri’s long-term future at the Etihad Stadium remains uncertain. With only 18 months left on his current contract and no extension signed beyond 2027, speculation about a potential departure continues to grow.
According to transfer experts such as Fabrizio Romano, the midfielder is evaluating his options while Manchester City considers how to secure his future at the club.
