Overview
- Pep Guardiola said he is 100% convinced Rodri will reach his previous level, though he warned it will take game time to build back.
- The midfielder has featured only briefly in recent weeks, with a one‑minute cameo against Bournemouth and no involvement against Borussia Dortmund.
- Guardiola indicated Rodri is unlikely to feature against Liverpool as City prioritises fitness management around a congested schedule and the upcoming international break.
- Nico Gonzalez continues to anchor midfield in Rodri’s absence, with Guardiola highlighting Rodri’s guidance for the 23‑year‑old, while Mateo Kovacic remains unavailable.
- Rodri’s contract runs until summer 2027, a timeline noted in local analysis as part of City’s longer‑term planning alongside his carefully managed return.