Manchester City received an early blow before the start of the new season, with the absence of Spain’s Rodri from the opening round of the English Premier League, which raises questions about his full readiness after his recent injury.
Rodri’s injury and his preparations are disrupted
Rodri suffered a muscle injury in the thigh during the confrontation of the Saudi Crescent in the Club World Cup, forcing him to stay away from group training for a long time, contenting with an individual rehabilitation program. Despite his recent participation in two full training sessions, the technical staff led by Pep Guardiola preferred to exclude him from the friendly meeting in front of the Italian Palermo scheduled for Saturday.
Why will Rodri be absent from Wolverhampton’s confrontation?
Guardiola explained that the player has not yet reached complete readiness, stressing that his decision to be absent from facing Wolverhampton in the first round came to avoid any setback. The coach indicated that Rodri’s return may be in front of Tottenham or Brighton, but the decisiveness will depend on his response to the treatment program until the international stoppage period.
Guardiola comments about Rodri’s case
Guardiola said: “Rodri is improving, but he was severely injured in front of the crescent. It has been training better recently, and we hope it is completely ready after the international stoppage. The most important thing is that he does not feel any pain, because we do not want to risk his return before his recovery is complete. ”
The effect of absence on the center of Manchester City
Rodri’s absence, one of the most important balance elements in the middle of the stadium, may require Guardiola to rearrange his papers at the beginning of the season. This challenge comes at a time when Manchester City is seeking to impose its control since the first round to maintain its title in the Premier League.
