Rodri's Rollercoaster Comeback: From Injury Hell to Midfield Maestro
The journey back for Rodri has been a test of true grit and resilience. Following a devastating ACL rupture in September 2024, his return for the 2025-26 campaign was cruelly interrupted by another fitness blow during the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. His absence forced Pep Guardiola to heavily rely on Nico Gonzalez, highlighting just how crucial Rodri is to Manchester City's midfield engine.
Now, the tide is turning. After scoring his first Premier League goal in an incredible 655 days during the 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest, Guardiola couldn't hide his delight. "Finally it’s happening like we wanted a long time ago, when he came back, to not have setbacks, have consistency to play, play, and play," the City boss told reporters, clearly relieved to see his star regaining momentum.
However, the sheer volume of elite football means Rodri's minutes will still be carefully managed. With grueling travel to matches in Madrid and London, fatigue is a constant threat. Guardiola stressed the necessity of utilizing the entire squad to navigate the punishing schedule, ensuring Rodri can maintain his consistency without overexertion.
Contract Crisis: Is Real Madrid Calling for City's Anchor?
Despite his on-field resurgence, Rodri's long-term future at the Etihad remains shrouded in uncertainty. With only 18 months left on his current contract – and no extension penned beyond 2027 – the spectre of a high-profile departure grows larger by the day. While City officials are eager for a renewal, reports suggest no formal Rodri contract talks are currently underway.
Compounding the anxiety are persistent rumors of interest from Real Madrid. The Spanish capital-born midfielder has long been linked with a dream move to the Santiago Bernabeu. Esteemed transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently indicated that Rodri is actively considering his options amidst City's broader squad rebuild. Should his head be turned by the allure of Los Blancos, Manchester City might face the agonizing decision of selling this summer to avoid losing their irreplaceable star for free.
The Next Generation: City Eye £90m Anderson as Midfield Reinforcement
Guardiola has openly admitted that the very best version of Rodri might not fully materialize until the 2026-27 season, acknowledging the immense physical toll of such a lengthy injury layoff. This realistic outlook means Manchester City is proactively scouting for midfield reinforcements, and one name has risen to the top of their summer wishlist: Nottingham Forest's England international Elliot Anderson.
Whispers from reliable sources have even gone as far as suggesting an Elliot Anderson to City move is already a "done deal," albeit one that will command a staggering £90 million fee. This potential acquisition underscores City's commitment to maintaining their midfield dominance, regardless of Rodri's contract outcome, ensuring the club's future remains bright.
