Manchester City midfielder Rodri has opened up about his first significant injury, a ruptured ACL sustained during a match against Arsenal in September 2024.

The injury required surgery, marking a challenging period in the Spaniard's otherwise stellar career.

Rodri revealed that the early days of recovery were particularly tough, both physically and emotionally.

Coping with the initial phase in Spain, he described the first month as the hardest, but his positivity has grown steadily since then.

"It's different and difficult because it is my first big injury in my career," said Rodri.

"You never expect this to happen, but it has and life happens.

"But always I have a positive mentality to go again and recover well.

"I've been suffering to be fair, the first month was difficult, but after that it's time to move on and I can work easily. Everything goes better after the first two months.

"A good positive mentality to come back whenever it is and to get feedback."

Now back in Manchester, Rodri has reunited with his teammates, whom he greatly missed during his rehabilitation.

Despite being away, he maintained regular contact with them, which helped him stay connected. His return has brought a welcome chance to catch up and feel closer to the squad once again.

"I don't have control, and I don't have control of the situation, so it makes me feel nervous," he added.

"I remember the game with Wolves, and I was like 'oh my god' and we scored in the 95th minute - I almost started running with an injured knee!

"I'm not a good spectator of my team."