Manchester City’s star midfielder, Rodri, has set an ambitious goal of returning to action before the end of the current season, despite initially being ruled out after suffering a serious knee injury in September. The Spain international ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee during City’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal, an injury that manager Pep Guardiola said would keep him sidelined for the remainder of the season.

However, Rodri remains optimistic and determined. “My target is to come back this season. I don’t give up on this season, but I don’t want to make any mistakes. My target is six or seven months,” Rodri said on The Rest Is Football podcast. He revealed that his recovery has been progressing better than expected. “I am doing much better than I thought. I am enjoying the rest, if it’s possible to say it that way,” he added.

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City’s form has faltered in Rodri’s absence, with the team failing to win any of their last six matches across all competitions. Yet, Rodri’s confidence remains high as he focuses on a swift recovery. “My feeling was, not like a crack, the knee was stable. I was confident it wasn’t too bad. But I have a positive mentality now, and that’s it,” he explained. While the first month and a half were painful, leaving him unable to walk, he now finds his recovery much easier.

The Premier League season ends on 25 May, with the FA Cup final scheduled for 17 May. Following the domestic campaign, City will participate in the expanded 32-team Club World Cup in the United States, running from 15 June to 13 July, where Rodri could potentially make his return to action.