According to a report by Barca Universal on Saturday November 7, 2026, Barcelona midfielder Rodri is targeting a return from injury in time for the club's UEFA Champions League clash against his former side Manchester City on December 8.

According to reports, the Spain international is optimistic about completing his recovery before the highly anticipated encounter at the Spotify Camp Nou.

Rodri suffered a muscle injury during the first half of Barcelona's Champions League match against Aston Villa earlier this week.

The injury came as a major blow to Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, considering the midfielder's importance to the team since his arrival from Manchester City during the summer transfer window.

The 30-year-old has quickly established himself as a key figure in Flick's midfield, featuring in 14 of Barcelona's 15 matches across all competitions this season and starting 11 of them.

His performances have made him an important part of the team's structure, with Flick relying on his experience, intelligence and ability to control the tempo of matches.

The midfielder was reportedly devastated after initially learning the extent of his injury, which is expected to keep him out of action for approximately one month.

However, after coming to terms with the setback, Rodri has reportedly become more optimistic about his rehabilitation and is determined to return for the Manchester City encounter.

His injury means he is expected to miss Barcelona's La Liga meeting with Atletico Madrid, including the return fixture in early December.

He is also unlikely to feature against Villarreal after the international break, as well as the matches against Sabah, Deportivo de La Coruña and Celta Vigo.

Nevertheless, the Manchester City fixture remains his major target as he looks forward to facing his former employers.

Rodri enjoyed considerable success during his time at Manchester City before completing his move to Barcelona, making the Champions League meeting a special occasion for the Spanish midfielder.

According to the report, both the player and Barcelona's medical staff believe there is a possibility he could recover in time for the December 8 encounter.

However, Barcelona are expected to be cautious with his rehabilitation because of his importance to the squad.

Flick and the club's medical department will not want to take unnecessary risks with the midfielder's fitness or rush him back before he is fully recovered.