Rodri has returned to Manchester City’s matchday squad for the first time in seven months, following a potentially season-ending anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

The Spanish international had been expected to miss the remainder of the 2024–25 season after sustaining the injury in September. However, City hinted at an earlier-than-expected comeback by including the midfielder in their UEFA Champions League squad for the latter stages of the competition, though they were ultimately eliminated in the last-16 play-offs.

The reigning champions have felt Rodri’s absence acutely, with Pep Guardiola’s side on course to finish the season without a major trophy for the first time since the manager’s debut campaign in charge. Many have pointed to the 28-year-old’s injury as a key factor in the team’s dip in form, with his absence leaving a significant void in midfield.

In an attempt to bolster their ranks, City brought in Nico González from Porto in a £50.2 million deal during the January window, while Mateo Kovačić has often been deployed as Rodri’s understudy. Nevertheless, the team’s defensive solidity has suffered, conceding 43 goals in the Premier League to date.

Rodri began stepping up his rehabilitation in February, engaging in running and ball-work drills as documented in a video montage shared by the club. He returned to full training earlier this month and is now set to take his place on the bench for Tuesday evening’s fixture against Bournemouth — a major milestone in his recovery.

Speaking in March about Rodri’s prolonged absence, Guardiola offered a measured update:

“The fans must know they’re not the only ones excited. It’s been five-and-a-half, six months, so after the international break it could be. But one step at a time — we must avoid making any foolish decisions to bring him back weeks too early.

It’s good — although he’s not close to returning, I’d say. But he’s been touching the ball, he’s back in the dressing room. He feels confident, he’s happier.”

City head into their final home match of the league campaign needing a crucial win over Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth to stay in the hunt for Champions League qualification. Guardiola’s side currently sit sixth on 65 points — just outside the top five.

A draw would see City overtake Aston Villa on goal difference, but their European ambitions could still hang in the balance on the final day, when they travel to Craven Cottage to face Fulham.

Even if Rodri does not feature in the remaining league fixtures, he may yet prove valuable in June, as Manchester City prepare to compete in the revamped FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.