Khaberni - Manchester City's manager Pep Guardiola confirmed that Rodri might need most of the season to return to his best levels, at the same time expressing his confidence in the ability of the substitute Nico Gonzalez to continue developing.
The British News Agency (PA Media) reported that Rodri played for an hour in the match that ended in a 2-2 draw between Manchester City and Monaco in the Champions League last Wednesday, after missing the previous two matches for the team.
Guardiola hinted that Rodri (29 years old) will be ready to participate in the match against Brentford tomorrow Sunday, but the process of regaining the level that earned him the Ballon d'Or will take more time.
The Spanish coach said: "Rodri has been and still is a great player, and everyone knows that. But I told him, and it may have been difficult for him to accept, that it's not about six or seven months after the injury. It's not as if after eight months he will return and be the same old Rodri. No".
He added: "Rodri will perform well with the Spanish team in the World Cup next summer. In the World Cup, we will see Rodri's best performance, and next season Rodri will be at his best. As for this season, it will be about managing the situation step by step."
He confirmed: "This is normal, he spent a whole year on the physiotherapy table. The body changes, and the rhythm changes. It's just a matter of time. If he's in good health and continues to work on what he needs to do, he will return to his level."
