Rodri to return THIS SEASON? Man City midfielder outlines plans for sensational comeback from ACL injury ahead of Club World Cup

Initially expected to miss the remainder of the season due to ACL and meniscus damage in his right knee - sustained during the 2-2 draw with Arsenal in September - the Spaniard now aims to return earlier than predicted. The initial prognosis suggested a recovery period of up to 10 months, placing Rodri's return well into next season. However, the 27-year-old is keen to expedite his rehabilitation, viewing the journey as both a physical and mental challenge.

In an interview with Cadena Ser, Rodri said: "There is the information that the surgeon gives you, who wants everything to go well and it extends up to 10 months or so. I'm trying to set a date for myself. For reasons of my mind, I'm trying to finish this season."

City earned their spot in the inaugural 32-team Club World Cup by winning the Champions League in 2023. Rodri played a pivotal role in that triumph, scoring the decisive goal in the final against Inter. The revamped tournament, modelled on the World Cup, will feature eight groups of four teams followed by a knockout stage. Running from June 15 to mid-July, the event provides Rodri with a concrete goal to work toward as he recovers.

"Every year they are longer and I think I will make it," he said. "I don't know how much I will be able to participate, but with the Nations League and Club World Cup at the end, June-July, I think so."

Rodri’s absence has coincided with a turbulent period for City, marking one of the most challenging stretches in Pep Guardiola’s managerial career. The reigning Premier League champions have lost four consecutive matches, a first for Guardiola, including back-to-back league defeats to Bournemouth and Brighton. After the international break, City will look to rebound with a challenging Premier League clash against Tottenham on November 23.