Double Trouble for Manchester City: Knocked Out and Rodri Injured Again
Al Hilal Ends City’s Ambition in Dramatic Showdown
Manchester City experienced a devastating night at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and rodri injured.
Al Hilal crushed their dreams with a shocking 4-3 defeat in the round of 16.
The match exploded with intensity from the first whistle.
Both sides exchanged attacks, but Al Hilal proved more efficient and clinical.
Despite dominating possession, City lacked the finishing touch during key moments.
They missed several golden opportunities that could have changed the game.
The defeat was especially bitter because City entered as title favorites.
Now, their campaign ends prematurely, leaving fans in disbelief.
Rodri’s Return Ends with Another Injury Blow
The return of Rodri was meant to boost City’s midfield presence.
He came off the bench in the 53rd minute, receiving loud cheers from the crowd.
However, those cheers quickly turned into concern and confusion.
During extra time, Rodri signaled to the bench that something felt wrong.
He was substituted before the final whistle, raising alarm bells among supporters.
This match marked his first major appearance since a knee injury in September 2024.
City fans had high hopes for his comeback, especially in such a crucial clash.
Unfortunately, his return was short-lived and filled with new uncertainty.
Guardiola Breaks Silence on Rodri’s Fitness Concerns
After the match, Pep Guardiola shared some unsettling news regarding Rodri.
He revealed the player complained about physical discomfort right after the game.
“We have to check on him,” said Guardiola.
“He wasn’t feeling right. It doesn’t look good,” he admitted.
The medical staff is now closely monitoring Rodri’s condition.
Everyone at City fears another potential spell on the sidelines.
If Rodri misses more time, City could face serious midfield challenges ahead.
He has always been a crucial figure in Guardiola’s tactical setup.
Now, the uncertainty around his status only deepens the disappointment.
Al Hilal’s Tactics Overwhelm Pep’s Men
While Guardiola acknowledged his team’s effort, he praised Al Hilal’s tactical execution.
“They played with high aggression and fast transitions,” Pep explained post-match.
City controlled possession, but couldn’t handle the relentless counter-attacks.
Al Hilal exploited every gap with ruthless precision.
City defenders appeared overwhelmed every time the Saudi side pushed forward.
Guardiola admitted they couldn’t cope with the tactical discipline of their opponents.
“We allowed them to dictate the game in transition,” he added.
“That’s something we usually dominate, but today we failed.”
Despite the loss, he remained proud of his players’ commitment.
Still, the result leaves a scar on their otherwise successful campaign.
A Nightmare Ending for City’s Club World Cup Dream
The elimination from the tournament is a massive setback for Guardiola’s project.
This was supposed to be the year City lifted their first Club World Cup title.
Instead, they return home with heartbreak and more injury worries.
Rodri’s fitness issue adds more complexity to an already demanding schedule.
Every title-contending team needs stability in midfield.
Rodri’s potential absence could derail City’s momentum in other competitions.
The night in Riyadh was supposed to be another step toward global dominance.
Instead, it turned into one of their darkest moments in recent memory.
Guardiola must now rally his squad and focus on recovery and regrouping.
Time is ticking, and challenges await in domestic and European campaigns.
Baca Juga: Messi Gets Emotional After Baggio Italy Jersey Surprise
