Manchester City manager, Pep Guardiola, has described midfielder Rodri as “the best player in the world” as he prepares to return to action against Tottenham on Saturday.
The Spaniard, who won the Ballon d’Or, has endured a difficult spell after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury against Arsenal in September last year. Although he returned briefly towards the end of last season, setbacks forced the 29-year-old to miss part of pre-season and City’s opening-day 4-0 victory at Wolves.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Guardiola said:
“He’s still, by far, the best player in the world until a new one is elected in a few months. I have no doubts about his quality and potential. With consistent training, minutes, and games, everything will fall into place.”
Rodri’s return is seen as a major boost to City’s hopes of reclaiming the Premier League title after finishing third last season. The champions impressed at Molineux last weekend, with new signings Tijjani Reijnders and Rayan Cherki both scoring, while goalkeeper James Trafford made his first senior start for the club.
However, Guardiola admitted he is yet to decide who will start in goal against Spurs, with Ederson, who is recently linked with a move to Galatasaray now fit and available.
The City boss also praised the impact of his new arrivals: “The new players bring new energy and ideas. It’s always tough to change staff or players, but they refresh everything. James (Trafford) brings youth and a real desire to succeed at the club he grew up in. We’re happy with the first performance, but it’s just one game. Consistency and improvement are what we need, especially against Spurs.”
Meanwhile, Portuguese defender Ruben Dias has committed his long-term future to City, signing a two-year contract extension that will keep him at the Etihad until 2029.
“I am thrilled. City is where I want it to be, at the top of the game, competing for trophies,” Dias said. “The club’s ambition matches mine perfectly. Manchester feels like home now, and the fans are incredible. With the trophies we’ve won and the football we’ve played since I arrived, I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else.”
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