Manchester City midfielder Rodri has admitted it will be “months” before he is back to his best. Spain star Rodri is coming back from a long-term cruciate knee ligament injury which kept him out for the majority of last season.
Rodri is using the Club World Cup to step up his fitness to get ready for next season but admits he is still searching for his top form and his sharpness.
City missed their key midfielder badly last year and it is clear that Rodri fears it will be a while before they get him back to his best.
Rodri, who will be in the squad to face Juventus in their final group match, said: “I feel very, very strong, to be honest. The process was long, but I was taking my time.
“The most important thing was to keep focused and be strong. Not be sad or whatever. One day I'll come back and this day has finally come and. I'm very excited to play again.
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“I know it's still going to be months until I reach my level, but I'm so happy. I feel very good, very happy to be here. It's an amazing tournament to start again to play football.
“I'm really excited to join the team again, to join them on the pitch, the most important thing. I'm very excited to work with them and win.”
Rodri has previously been critical of players having to play too many games and also of an exhaustive calendar.
But Rodri says the Club World Cup is ideal for him to bolster his fitness. He added: “Now it is a massive opportunity for me to come back.
“Maybe if this tournament doesn't happen, I will be on holiday. But for me, individually, it's a great opportunity to come back at the highest level and play a tournament we never played.
“The idea is amazing, honestly. I think we're excited. You can see the difference between the clubs from and all around the world. It's good and interesting for the people.”