Manchester City midfielder Rodri admitted that it will take him months to hit top form again after returning from a cruciate ligament injury.
City have gently eased the Spaniard back into action and he is likely to be given more minutes against Juventus on Thursday in the final group game of the Club World Cup.
Pep Guardiola missed the 29-year-old’s influence in thwarting danger last season, although remains mindful of overloading his metronome.
Nico Gonzalez and new signing Tijjani Reijnders have started in the deeper midfielder berth in the opening two matches of the tournament, with Rodri itching for a start.
‘I feel very, very strong to be honest,’ Rodri said. ‘The process was long, but I was taking my time.
‘The most important thing was to keep focused and be strong. Not be sad or whatever, knowing one day I’ll come back and this day has finally come and. I’m very excited to play again.
Manchester City’s Rodri has revealed how long he thinks it will take him to get back to his best
The midfielder missed almost the whole of last season after suffering a serious cruciate injury
He is now back in action but is itching for a start out in the United States this summer
‘I know it’s still going to be months until I reach my level, but I’m so happy. Now it is a massive opportunity for me to come back.’
Rodri has been outspoken on players requiring more rest in the calendar and suggested that elite players could go on strike if their concerns were not heard. But he cut a different figure in Orlando.
‘Maybe if this tournament doesn’t happen, I will be on holiday,’ Rodri said. ‘But for me, individually, it’s a great opportunity to come back at the highest level and play a tournament we never played.
‘The idea is amazing, honestly. I think we’re excited. You can see the difference between the clubs from and all around the world. It’s good and interesting for the people.’
