“It was a breath of fresh air” – Rodri lifts lid on ACL struggles and Ballon d’Or | OneFootball

Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri has delivered an honest verdict on his struggles dealing with an ACL injury in the months preceding his Ballon d’Or crowning.

The 29-year-old suffered an ACL rupture in Manchester City’s 2-2 Premier League draw with Arsenal in September 2024, keeping him on the sidelines till May, when he made his long-awaited return to action against Bournemouth on Kevin De Bruyne’s final home appearance at the Etihad Stadium.

Rodri became the first player in Manchester City history to win the prestigious Ballon d’Or last year, having led his club to a fourth successive Premier League title and spearheaded his nation all the way at the 2024 European Championship.

However, it was a bittersweet award ceremony for Rodri, who collected his honour on crutches as a result of the injury he sustained a few months prior, with the ACL injury epitomising the concerns the former Atletico Madrid man has been voicing over fixture congestion and the unrealistic demands put on players due to the increasing commercial nature of football.

Manchester City endured their most challenging campaign under Pep Guardiola during Rodri’s absence last term, failing to challenge for the Premier League title and recording their lowest points tally in the league (71) under Guardiola en route to a third-place finish.

The Blues also exited the UEFA Champions League at the Round of 16 stage and lost the FA Cup final to Crystal Palace, marking a sobering season on the pitch for a side that has dominated English football over the years and won a historic treble in 2023.

Rodri suffered a further injury setback at the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States this summer and though the Ballon d’Or holder produced a commanding display in midfield in City’s latest league loss to Brighton, the midfielder is nowhere near 100% yet.

Guardiola indicated in a press conference in August that it will only be until after the September international break that Manchester City would witness the best of Rodri, who importance to his side can best be underscored by nailing down the manner in which City fell apart in the absence of their midfield anchor last term.

Speaking in the days leading to a 20 minute cameo in Spain’s 6-0 rout of Andorra on Sunday, Rodri reflected on the most physically and mentally draining period of his career.

“The (ACL) injury is much more significant than the Ballon d’Or. It was a breath of fresh air at a time when I was having a really hard time,” Rodri said, as quoted by ESPN.

“I’m happy for the recognition, but it’s of no use to me. Above all, when you go through this process on a mental level, I want to return to my level, enjoy football again.

“That’s my only goal. So far I’ve played two (matches this season) with Manchester City – one in its entirety. I’m going as fast as I can, getting back in shape.”