Man City's Rodri returns to action after eight-month injury layoff

The 29-year-old Spaniard suffered the setback during a 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium in September of last season, cutting short what had been the finest sustained spell of his career.

His dominant performances were recognised with the 2024 Ballon d'Or, awarded just a month after his injury.

Rodri returned to the pitch in City's penultimate Premier League fixture of the 2024/25 campaign with a brief cameo against Bournemouth.

Since then, he has made two further substitute appearances in the Club World Cup Group G matches, featuring against Wydad AC and Al Ain.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola emphasised the importance of managing Rodri's return carefully, citing the need to balance match rhythm with full recovery.

City, who finished third in the Premier League after four consecutive title-winning seasons, will hope Rodri's return adds steel and control to their midfield.

"Well, I feel very good, and very happy to be here," said Rodri.

"An amazing tournament to start again to play football and really excited to join the team again, joining in the pitch. That's the most important thing.

"And be excited to work with them and win - that's the aim today.

"This [the Club World Cup] is a massive opportunity for me to come back.

"I feel very, very strong to be honest.

"You know, the process [of recovery] was long, but I was taking my time and said that the most important thing was to keep focus and don't be sad or whatever.

"I knew one day I'll come back and yeah, this day has finally come.

"I'm very excited to play again.

"And though it's going to still be months until I reach my level, I am so happy."