Manchester City faces concerns over the fitness of midfielder Rodri following an injury sustained during the Club World Cup final against Fluminense. The Spanish midfielder collapsed in pain after a challenge by Fluminense’s Alexsander in the second half of the game in Jeddah. Despite attempting to continue, Rodri was eventually replaced, with City opting not to take further risks, especially as they were already three goals ahead.
City dominated the Club World Cup final, with Julian Alvarez, an own goal by Nino, and a goal by Phil Foden securing a comfortable lead. Rodri’s importance to City has been evident, notably scoring the game-winning goal in the Champions League final. The team has faced challenges in his absence, suffering three Premier League defeats this season when the 27-year-old was not available.
In the Club World Cup final, Rodri’s injury occurred when City had a substantial lead, and his substitution by Manuel Akanji did not impede their victory. Alvarez added a fourth goal to seal the triumph.
Erling Haaland, City’s leading scorer, was already ruled out of both Club World Cup games and has been absent due to injury in recent Premier League matches. City, who have faced challenges with the absence of key players like Kevin De Bruyne throughout the season, now awaits the fitness status of Rodri ahead of their return to domestic action against Everton on December 27.
The upcoming fixtures include a match against struggling Sheffield United on December 30, but City’s last league game before January 13 will be against Everton.
This break allows City some respite to manage injuries and assess the availability of key players for upcoming competitions, including the FA Cup third-round tie against Huddersfield Town.
As City navigates through a congested schedule and copes with the absence of influential players, the fitness of Rodri becomes a focal point. Guardiola’s side will be hoping for a swift recovery to maintain their momentum in domestic and potentially European competitions.
The injury challenges add complexity to City’s campaign, emphasizing the importance of depth and resilience in their pursuit of silverware.
