The 29-year-old missed most of last season after tearing his ACL against Arsenal, a blow that coincided with City’s dip in form. He was forced off again in their 4-3 FIFA Club World Cup loss to Al-Hilal this summer and is still recovering.
Speaking before City’s pre-season friendly with Palermo, Guardiola said Rodri is unlikely to return before September. “Rodri is getting better but he had a big injury in the last game against Al Hilal. Hopefully, after the international break, he will be really fit,” he explained.
He added: “What is important is that he doesn’t have pain because we don’t want Rodri coming back injured. He has been training the last two sessions with us and that’s good.”
