When Man City star Rodri could return as new injury timeline emerges after surgery

Manchester City have confirmed that star midfielder Rodri has undergone surgery following the 2026 World Cup in North America.

The 30-year-old completed nearly every minute as Luis de la Fuente's Spain lifted the World Cup this summer, before needing medical treatment.

He has rarely looked the same since his ACL injury during the 2024-25 campaign, with supporters hoping that Elliot Anderson can carry the load in midfield.

Now, he has been forced to seek help over a minor back complaint, one which the player is already recovering from ahead of next season.

During 2025-26, Pep Guardiola was only able to start Rodri in 17 Premier League games, but managed to start five in the Champions League.

There is also a question mark hanging over Rodri's head when it comes to his future, but those at the Etihad Stadium are focused on getting him fit again.

When could Rodri return for Man City?

Just 26 days remain until Man City's Premier League campaign kicks off, facing Bournemouth at the Etihad on Sunday, 23 August.

However, the Citizens must first face last season's Premier League winners, Arsenal, in the Community Shield at Wembley Stadium.

And that is when sources have told the Athletic that Rodri could return by, expecting him to be back alongside his teammates just a few days prior.

It is unlikely that he'll be fit enough to start in the Community Shield on Sunday, 16 August, but any minutes at all will be a positive for Enzo Maresca's side.

Until then, City face Inter Milan, set to be John Stones' new team, K-League All Stars and Atletico Madrid, before returning to England.

What's the latest on Rodri's future?

Football Insider understands that Rodri has left the door open to a move away from the Etihad this summer, with Real Madrid certainly interested.

Reports have stated that the La Liga giants are working on the assumption that a deal will be reached over the coming weeks, which is a scary prospect back in Manchester.

The Ballon d'Or winner has been a huge figure for the Citizens over the last few seasons, and even with Anderson, he would be a huge miss next term.

But given that Rodri has entered into the final 12 months of his contract, and there are no signs of an extension, anything could happen this summer.