Manchester City midfielder Rodri has returned to individual training, marking a significant milestone in his recovery from a serious knee injury.
The Ballon d’Or winner, who has been sidelined since September with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), completed a solo on-pitch workout at the Etihad Campus on Friday.
While manager Pep Guardiola has cautioned against expectations of an imminent return to action, Rodri’s progress is a welcome boost for Manchester City, who have struggled in his absence.
The club has slipped 20 points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool and been eliminated from the Champions League, highlighting the importance of Rodri’s return to the team.
With nearly three months of the domestic season remaining, there is growing optimism that Rodri will play a part in Manchester City’s remaining fixtures, potentially including the Club World Cup in the USA in June.
Rodri’s return would be a significant injection of talent and experience for Guardiola’s squad, who have clearly missed him this season.