Former Ballon D’ or Winner Battles To Bounce Back After Injury Nightmare

Former Ballon D’ or Winner Battles To Bounce Back After Injury Nightmare

Manchester City’s midfield engine, Rodri, is battling to revive his career after a nightmare year of injuries that has left his future uncertain.

The Spaniard, once hailed as City’s most reliable performer, is now sidelined again following a hamstring problem that has delayed his full recovery from a serious knee injury.

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Rodri suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in September 2024 — part of what doctors called the “terrible triad” involving both menisci.

The setback required complex surgery and months of rehabilitation.

Manager Pep Guardiola warned against rushing his return, stressing that “an ACL is an ACL” and that patience was key.

But Rodri returned just eight months later, featuring briefly in the Premier League and at the Club World Cup. That decision backfired.

The 28-year-old picked up another injury during the tournament and has since struggled to regain match fitness, missing vital Champions League and Premier League fixtures.

Can Rodri Rise Again?

Rodri’s determination is unquestioned, but history shows ACL injuries can change a player forever.

Many stars, including Falcao and Solskjaer, never regained their peak form after similar setbacks.

Still, examples like Ronaldo and Van Nistelrooy prove that full comebacks are possible with the right mindset and management.

For now, Manchester City’s midfield balance has suffered without their metronome, reports Goal.

Guardiola will be hoping his Spanish star can rediscover the consistency that made him a Ballon d’Or winner and City’s heartbeat.

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