Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has provided an update on Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder Rodri, stating that he could make a return before the end of the season.
Guardiola had initially ruled out a return for the season after the Spaniard suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament injury in September – however, Rodri has now begun individual training.
“The fans must know they are not the only ones who are excited,” Guardiola said reporters after the 3-1 win over Plymouth Argyle to reach the quarter-finals of the FA Cup.
“He was touching the ball today. He was in the locker room … he feels more confident, he feels happier.
“I couldn’t expect [it] before, but I think maybe, before the end of the season. Not even in the Club World Cup, but in the Premier League, maybe he’s going to help us.”
However, Guardiola said the club would be cautious with Rodri’s recovery.
“One step at a time. We don’t have to make stupid decisions to come back weeks earlier and [suffer] steps back. But yeah, looks good. Still, he’s not close to coming back, I would say,” Guardiola added.
