Manchester City has successfully secured a Champions League knockout play-off spot after a commanding 3-1 victory over Club Brugge in the final round of the league phase. This crucial win at the Etihad Stadium ensured Pep Guardiola’s men finished 22nd in the standings with 11 points, keeping their European title defense alive.
However, as City navigates a challenging season filled with injuries and inconsistency, one major question looms—could the return of Rodri be the game-changer that reignites their campaign?
🚀 Guardiola Considering Rodri’s Inclusion in Champions League Squad
According to The Telegraph, Guardiola is seriously contemplating re-registering Rodri in City’s Champions League squad for the knockout stages. The 28-year-old Spanish midfielder has been sidelined since September due to a severe ACL injury in his right knee, sparking concerns that he would miss the remainder of the season.
However, recent reports indicate that Rodri’s recovery is progressing well, and City could make a crucial decision on February 6—the official deadline for teams to make three squad changes ahead of the knockout phase.
With Kyle Walker’s departure to AC Milan and the arrivals of Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, and Vitor Reis, City has room to make strategic additions to their Champions League roster.
🩺 Rodri Hints at Potential Comeback This Season
Despite the severity of his injury, Rodri himself has provided a major boost to City fans by expressing his determination to return before the end of the season.
“My goal is to return to the pitch this season. I won’t give up, but I also don’t want to rush and risk making mistakes. My plan is to be back before the season ends.”
Rodri’s resilience and leadership have been integral to Manchester City’s dominance in both domestic and European competitions. His absence has significantly impacted Guardiola’s side, with City struggling to maintain midfield control in crucial fixtures.
📉 How Much Has City Missed Rodri? The Statistical Impact
Rodri’s influence on Manchester City’s gameplay is undeniable, and his absence has correlated with the team’s most challenging period this season.
📊 Man City with Rodri vs. Without Rodri (2024/25 Season)
| Stat | With Rodri | Without Rodri |
|---|---|---|
| Win Percentage | 82% | 54% |
| Goals Conceded Per Game | 0.8 | 1.6 |
| Points Per Game (PL & UCL) | 2.4 | 1.7 |
| Losses | 2 | 6 |
🔹 Defensive Stability: With Rodri on the pitch, City concedes nearly 50% fewer goals per game.
🔹 Midfield Control: Rodri’s presence improves City’s passing accuracy and ball retention, reducing opponent counter-attacks.
🔹 Big Match Influence: He has been pivotal in City’s biggest wins, including last season’s Champions League triumph.
City’s struggles in his absence have exposed a lack of midfield control, forcing Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, and Mateo Kovacic to take on more defensive responsibilities—something that has disrupted their attacking rhythm.
🔥 Can Rodri’s Return Revive City’s Champions League Hopes?
Manchester City remains one of the favorites to win the Champions League, but their route to the final will be far tougher than expected.
With additional knockout play-off matches added due to UEFA’s new format, Guardiola will need his strongest squad available. Rodri’s return would not only bolster City’s midfield dominance but also allow attacking players to thrive without worrying about defensive cover.
⚡ Key Takeaways:
✅ Rodri’s recovery is progressing well, and City is considering adding him back to the Champions League squad.
✅ His absence has significantly weakened City’s defense and midfield control.
✅ If he returns before the season’s end, it could be the boost Guardiola needs to challenge for both Premier League and Champions League titles.
With February 6 looming, all eyes will be on Manchester City’s squad decisions—will Rodri make a sensational return just in time for another European push?
🗣️ What do you think? Can Rodri’s return be the difference-maker for City this season? Let us know in the comments below! 👇
