Rodri says playing again is a ‘gift’ after 16-month injury nightmare, despite Man City’s late collapse in a 1-1 draw with Chelsea at the Etihad
RODRI described his return to the pitch as a “gift” despite Manchester City’s costly 1-1 draw with Chelsea on Sunday.
The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner made his first start since October after a cruciate knee ligament injury in September 2024 sidelined him for most of 16 months.
“For me it is a gift. What I have been through has been terrible for me so winning, drawing, losing for me right now everything is a gift,” said Rodri.
He added that his current focus is on staying fit and rediscovering his joy for football.
City dominated the first half at the Etihad Stadium but were punished for not converting their chances.
Tijjani Reijnders gave the hosts the lead, but a 94th-minute equaliser from Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez dealt a major blow to City’s title hopes.
The result leaves Pep Guardiola’s side six points behind Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Rodri acknowledged his team’s performance dipped after the break, especially after losing defenders Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias to injury.
“First half was brilliant, enough to score three or four goals,” he said.
“In the second half we forgot a little bit how to play and they got control of the game.”
Despite the disappointing result, Rodri expressed satisfaction with his physical condition after a series of muscle setbacks.
“I feel strong. I need the rhythm of the games but for the moment of the season we are in and where I came from I feel good,” he said.
