Pep Guardiola has disclosed that Rodri suffered another injury setback in a bitter twist following Manchester City's shocking defeat in the Club World Cup. Rodri, the City midfield lynchpin, was brought on in the second half and then substituted off again in extra time. Guardiola disclosed that Rodri's substitution was down to a new worry - a cruel blow after his lengthy absence last season due to a cruciate knee ligament injury.

While Guardiola kept coy on the specifics or severity of the injury, it represents a disappointment for City, as they grapple with the loss of their final chance to clinch any silverware this season. In an incredible turn of events, City succumbed to Al-Hilal during extra time, marking the competition's greatest upset and a momentous triumph for the Saudi club.

The City manager commented post-match: "We have to see Rodri, he complained about his situation, but we need time to come back." Despite the team's sluggish exit, Guardiola contended they had ample opportunities to snatch victory.

He added to his assessment: "It was a difficult game. We allowed them to make transitions we created a lot. It is a pity, we have been on incredible journey together and so good place.

"We were so open. When the crosses arrived, in the first action, they had the ability to pass the ball and attack and they have quick players. We created a lot and had a lot of chances against a team that defend so deep. They punished us on the transitions."

Guardiola expressed that despite the tournament's disappointing end, the training camp had been positive.

He further stated: "The vibe was really good, I cannot thank Manchester City enough and especially the players for training and how they have been playing. The margins are minimal, they ran into transitions a bit, but we created a lot, Bono made incredible saves.

"We would have loved to have continued, only here once every four year, we had a feeling that the team is doing well but we go home and now it is time to rest and rest our minds for the new season.

"It is too early to say but so many good things I did not seen in the past. The relationship between the players, our captain helped a lot and the standards with staff.

"I felt we were happy here, the training sessions have been really good but the level of this competition is the World Cup and we regret a little bit that we allowed them to run a bit more."