Man City Star Midfielder Sidelined for Club World Cup as Rodri Issues Alarming Fitness Alert

Pep Guardiola, the Manchester City boss, faces several injury concerns as he navigates the upcoming fixtures. Claudio Echeverri appears set to miss the remainder of the Club World Cup campaign, while Rodri continues to manage expectations around his comeback timeline.

The young Argentine forward celebrated his maiden Manchester City start with a goal against Al Ain, but his joy was short-lived as he was withdrawn at the interval on Monday. Echeverri was subsequently seen using crutches during the team's training session that followed.

"Ankle problems, unfortunately he'll be out for two to three weeks. I really feel for him," Guardiola expressed with disappointment while emphasizing his commitment to squad rotation moving forward.

"Fresh faces will feature, both in upcoming matches and during the second half," the Spanish tactician stated. "Our team selection reflects this approach. Given our current circumstances, we're not prepared for full 90-minute performances, so we'll be making changes at halftime."

Echeverri isn't Guardiola's sole fitness worry. Rodri endured an eight-month absence due to an ACL injury before making his comeback in mid-May. The current Ballon d'Or winner has featured as a substitute in the closing 30 minutes of City's opening two Club World Cup group matches, though he remains cautious about his future participation.

"I understand it will take several more months before I return to my peak form," Rodri acknowledged when speaking to reporters. "However, I'm delighted to be back and I'm working to help everyone maintain the team we once were. We need to adapt and enhance our approach."

"The rehabilitation journey was lengthy, but I took it step by step," Rodri reflected on his recovery process. "The key was maintaining focus and mental strength. Avoiding negativity or despair. I always believed I would return, and that moment has finally arrived. I'm thrilled to be playing again."

Rodri is expected to feature as a substitute rather than in the starting lineup for City's crucial group stage encounter against Juventus on Thursday night.