Guardiola has explained why Rodri was included in UCL squad, Man City midfielder Rodri and Pep Guardiola pictured on March 3, 2024. Image: Pulse Sports.
(The Post News)– Pep Guardiola, the head coach for Manchester City, has spoken out on his decision to include Rodrigo “Rodri” Hernandez Cascante in the team’s Champions League knockout squad, despite the midfielder’s persistent injury.
Teams have handed in their latest squad selections for the Champions League playoffs, where Man City will play against Real Madrid in the knockout stages for a trip to the quarterfinals. With Manchester City’s Champions League hopes hanging in the balance, Guardiola’s decision to list Rodri, who has been sidelined since an injury earlier this season, raised some eyebrows.
Rodri, who sustained a knee injury during City’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal, was diagnosed with an ACL problem. His availability for the rest of the season was initially questioned due to this injury. But many were taken aback by his inclusion in the revised team.
Guardiola told reporters that he does not anticipate Rodri’s contribution to the team’s Champions League campaign, confirming that the Spaniard’s comeback this season is doubtful. Despite this, the manager explained that Rodri has started light training on grass, which led to the decision to retain him in the squad list.
“I’d love to arrive in the last stages of the UCL and have him available to help, but I will not put any pressure on him,” Guardiola said. “In my mind, next season is Rodri. I’m not expecting him to be here this season, but if he comes back earlier, that would be great.”
Rodri’s inclusion, Guardiola added, was based on the hope that the midfielder could make a surprise return later in the competition. The manager furthermore emphasised that there are no expectations for Rodri’s involvement in the team’s upcoming fixtures.
About the Author
