Rodri
Rodri has stepped up his recovery
Manchester City have received a major boost, with Rodri targeting a return to action this season after stepping up his recovery from an ACL injury.
The midfielder, who won the Ballon d'Or earlier this year, was initially ruled out for the entire campaign after rupturing his ACL during his side's 2-2 draw against rivals Arsenal back in September.
Rodri has since undergone surgery on his right knee, with City boss Pep Guardiola stating: "Next season he will be here. This season is over [for him]." However, it now seems as though the Spain international could be back in action much sooner than first expected.
According to a report from the Sun, Rodri is 'a couple of months ahead of schedule' and has 'impressed medics with his range of motion' while using the running machine. As a result, it is claimed he could return to action before the end of the season.
[
Man City legend claims silverware hopes hinge on two key players](https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/man-city-de-bruyne-grealish-34315287)
Rodri had previously stated that he hopes he will be able to play again at some point during the current campaign, telling Spanish radio station Cadena Ser llast month: "Right now I'm not thinking about football, about winning.
"I'm just thinking about giving myself a chance to recover to regain the level I had before. From a mental standpoint, my aim is to play this season. Each year, the seasons are longer.
"I don't know how much I will be able to contribute but having the Nations League and the Club World Cup in June and July, I think I will be able to do so."
Manchester City's Rodri down injured against Arsenal
Rodri was expected to be out for the season after rupturing his ACL
Rodri also admitted he is "eager to return in order to give the team encouragement", with City currently enduring a woeful run of form that has seen them win just one of their last ten games across all competitions.
"It's clear that we are going through a negative spell," he added. "It's not the first time. If there's a team that has shown that it can bounce back it's our team. I have no doubt that we will come out of this. We have a strong team. I'm eager to return in order to give the team encouragement."
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.