Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola stressed that one of the team’s key players, Rodri, will need time to get back to his best physical condition. He said the process won’t be quick and requires both patience and the right work.
The Spanish midfielder played the entire city derby against Manchester United — a full 90 minutes. However, Rodri’s full match was not enough to save the Citizens from defeat: City lost 0–2.
Guardiola highlighted the key point: Rodri battled injuries for a long time and returned to the pitch after a lengthy break. That is why reaching his previous level naturally takes time.
“Soon Rodri will start playing better, and the whole team will improve with him. He fought injuries for a year and a half and came back to the pitch. Of course, at a moment like this a player needs time — it’s completely normal,” said the Spanish coach.
He added that one positive takeaway was Rodri completing the full match against United. This primarily shows his fitness is coming back. Guardiola also noted that Rodri did not look bad in the game.
“Setbacks happen, but his character will help us get through it,” the coach concluded.
In short, for City Rodri is not just a player but a key figure who maintains the team’s tempo, control, and balance. If he reaches full fitness, the Citizens’ game could look different. But for now the main thing is not to rush: in top-level football, recovery — like scoring a goal — requires a clear plan and patience.
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