Manchester City midfielder Rodri has revealed that he has 'challenged himself' to participate in club games before the end of the season.
In September, the Spain international sustained an ACL injury during the 2-2 draw with Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium.
As expected, Rodri is expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the campaign, with the focus being on being fully-fit for 2025-26.
Nevertheless, it appears that the 28-year-old is not prepared to rule out the possibility of completing his rehabilitation in time to feature again before the end of the season.
With the Premier League finishing in May, another appearance in that competition looks highly unlikely, but the Euro 2024 winner is seemingly of the opinion that he could make the Club World Cup.
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What has Rodri had to say?
The tournament, which will be held in the United States, is scheduled to take place between June 15 and July 13.
Rodri has previously spoken of his unhappiness at more fixtures being added to the club and international schedule, yet he is envisaging a scenario where it could prove to be a blessing in disguise.
Speaking to COPE, the 28-year-old said: "Now the seasons are getting longer and the [FIFA Club] World Cup ends on July 13, I have in mind to return this year, as a challenge.
"I've already started walking and I'm feeling better than I thought...Gavi used to say: "I need to play football". At my age you see it differently, you have time to rest and recover well..."
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Would Guardiola be prepared to risk a Rodri return?
Ever since Rodri suffered his injury against Arsenal, it has become even more apparent that he is arguably as crucial to the team as Erling Haaland.
As well as currently being on a four-game losing streak, City have only defeated two teams - Slovan Bratislava and Sparta Prague - by more than a one-goal margin in 11 matches.
There has also been just three clean sheets during that period, against the aforementioned duo in the Champions League and at home to Southampton in the Premier League.
Nevertheless, with Pep Guardiola highly likely to sign an alternative to Rodri during the January transfer window, it may may reduce the need to rush Rodri back into the squad prior to 2025-26.
Darren Plant
