How human Manchester City look without Rodri

October 29, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

Manchester City might boast one of the deepest squads in world football, but recent matches have shown just how reliant they are on midfield general Rodri. With the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner sidelined through injury, Pep Guardiola’s side has looked, dare we say it, human. Control has slipped, results have wobbled, and Guardiola has been left shuffling his options in search of balance.

So, how serious is Rodri’s injury? When could he return? And what does his absence really mean for Manchester City’s season? Here’s everything we know so far.

A midfield missing its heartbeat

Manchester City have looked unusually vulnerable in recent weeks, and much of that comes down to the absence of one man: Rodri. Sidelined with a hamstring injury since mid-October, the Spanish midfielder’s unavailability has left a noticeable gap in Pep Guardiola’s carefully calibrated machine.

Guardiola: "No return date just yet"

Speaking ahead of City’s Carabao Cup clash with Swansea, Guardiola offered a cautious update: “There’s no timeframe for Rodri’s return yet. He’s not ready yet,” he said. While the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner has resumed partial training, Guardiola stressed the need for patience: “After what happened two times with muscular injuries, we’re going to see how he evolves this week.”

A troubling pattern of setbacks

Rodri's latest injury is just the latest in a string of fitness issues. Earlier this year, he spent months recovering from an ACL rupture, a major blow to both player and club. Now, with another muscular concern, his recurring setbacks are prompting City to take a more cautious approach than usual.

Midfield control crumbles without him

Pep Guardiola — Vitalii Vitleo / Shutterstock.com

City’s midfield has struggled in Rodri’s absence. Their recent 1–0 loss to Aston Villa not only ended a five-match unbeaten run but highlighted the lack of control in the centre of the pitch. Without Rodri’s positional discipline and distribution, Guardiola’s side has lacked its usual rhythm.

Returning to training, but not match-fit

Rodri’s recent return to training at the City Football Academy was a welcome sight for fans. But as Guardiola explained, he’s still only taking part in sessions partially. “He’s getting better, training with us partially,” the manager reiterated, making it clear the midfielder won’t be rushed back into action.

City's schedule adds pressure

swansea v man city — Michael715 / Shutterstock.com charnsitr / Shutterstock.com

Manchester City face a packed fixture list with games against Swansea, Bournemouth, and Borussia Dortmund within the space of a week. The urgency to get Rodri back is growing, but so is the risk of aggravating the injury. Guardiola and the medical team are sticking to a long-term view.

Who can step up in his absence?

With Rodri out, Guardiola is looking to others to fill the gap. Mateo Kovacic, youngster Rico Lewis, and academy prospect Nico Gonzalez have all been tipped to take on greater responsibility. While talented, none offer quite the same blend of calm, strength, and intelligence Rodri brings to the role.

Not the first time City have coped

This isn’t City’s first injury crisis, and Guardiola referenced last season’s similar struggles. The Carabao Cup, he says, is an opportunity for fringe players to get valuable minutes and prove their readiness. But even with a deep squad, replacing Rodri remains a uniquely difficult task.

Guardiola rotates, but keeps expectations high

“The Carabao Cup has always been like that,” said Guardiola about his rotation policy. “The guys who take a lot of minutes [must] be ready to show me… they are completely recovered and ready mentally… to be ready to play.” The expectation is clear: adapt, or fall behind.

A careful watch over the next week

Rodri’s condition will be monitored closely in the coming days. Guardiola and the club are hoping for a full recovery, not just a quick one. With pivotal matches on the horizon, all eyes are on whether City’s metronome can return to restore order in midfield.