Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has provided an update on midfielder Rodri’s recovery, admitting there is still no clear date for his return to full action. The Spaniard, who has been out with a muscular problem, has been sorely missed by City this season, especially in the middle of the park where his control and composure are unmatched.

Softfootball earlier reported that Rodri has returned to first-team training, but Guardiola remains cautious about rushing him back. The City boss emphasized that the club wants to avoid any setbacks, given the midfielder has already suffered similar issues twice this year.

According to Fabrizio Romano via his official X handle, Guardiola explained Rodri’s situation while speaking to the media, offering a glimpse of optimism but also a note of patience. Romano posted;

Guardiola: There’s no timeframe for Rodri’s return yet. He’s not ready yet. For sure he’s getting better, training with us partially. But after what happened two times, prior incidents in muscular, we’re going to see how he evolves this week.

Manchester City have had a bit of a rollercoaster start to the season, unsteady in parts but showing signs of improvement lately. However, their recent 1-0 defeat to Aston Villa at Villa Park, thanks to a goal from Matty Cash, was a reminder that they’re still finding their rhythm.

With crucial fixtures coming up, including Champions League commitments, Guardiola will be hoping Rodri’s recovery stays on track, as his return could be the boost City need to regain full momentum in their trophies chase.

Dani Carvajal, Real Madrid’s captain and reliable right-back, had surgery on his right knee today. The operation was an arthroscopy, done by Dr Manuel Leyes with the club’s medical team watching closely, as posted on the club’s official X account. The goal was to remove some loose material in the joint. Carvajal got hurt during Real Madrid’s 2-1 win over Barcelona, as reported by Softfootball.

As Softfootball previously reported, Carvajal’s injury was diagnosed after post-match tests revealed a loose body in the same knee where he suffered a serious ACL and LCL rupture in October 2024. That earlier setback sidelined him for nearly a full season, making this latest issue another unfortunate blow in what has been a turbulent two years for the veteran defender.

Latest Carvajal medical report.
https://t.co/sak8pxEqii pic.twitter.com/hYMOyEsXwf

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadriden) October 28, 2025

Now, Real Madrid has to rethink things at right-back. Fede Valverde stepped in during El Clásico, and he might keep that spot for a while. Trent Alexander-Arnold, recently back from injury, is another option. Losing Carvajal hurts, especially with big La Liga matches and Champions League games on the horizon.

Everyone is hoping he bounces back strong. Carvajal brings experience, leadership, and calm at the back—a captain in every sense. His teammates will feel the gap. For now, Madrid must navigate the coming weeks without him. Slowly but surely, though, all eyes will be on his recovery. If all goes well, he will be back stronger, sharper, and ready to lead the defense again.

Real Madrid have confirmed that right-back Dani Carvajal has suffered another injury setback, with medical tests revealing the presence of a joint free body in his right knee. The Spanish full-back will undergo an arthroscopy procedure and is expected to be sidelined until January, Softfootball reports.

The injury news comes as a huge blow for Los Blancos, especially after Carvajal’s commanding performance in the El Clásico victory over Barcelona last weekend. The defender was outstanding both defensively and offensively, helping Madrid secure a 2-1 win at the Santiago Bernabéu.

According to Real Madrid’s official X handle, the club confirmed in a medical report that Carvajal has been diagnosed with a joint free body in his right knee and will undergo surgery, They posted;

Carvajal medical report.
https://t.co/cmJeMkp0vm pic.twitter.com/vjTD3BoozE

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadriden) October 27, 2025

Softfootball earlier reported that Carvajal, who had only just returned from injury during Madrid’s 5-2 defeat to Atlético Madrid, is now set for another extended spell on the sidelines. His recurring injuries have become a growing concern for both the player and the club’s medical staff.

With Carvajal ruled out, Trent Alexander-Arnold who joined Madrid from Liverpool last summer will be mostly tasked with the right-back duties during this crucial stage of the season.

Madrid’s medical team will continue to monitor Carvajal’s recovery closely, with hopes he could return earlier if rehabilitation goes smoothly.The defender’s leadership and experience will be sorely missed in the coming fixtures, particularly with crucial La Liga and Champions League games fast approaching.

Napoli have been dealt a major blow as Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne is set to spend months on the sidelines following a serious muscle injury. The 34-year-old, who joined the Italian champions in the summer, had been in impressive form before the setback.

The news has come as a huge concern for Napoli fans, especially after De Bruyne’s seamless adaptation to life in Serie A and his growing influence under Antonio Conte. His absence will undoubtedly test the team’s depth and creativity in midfield.

According to reports, the Serie A side made the official announcement earlier today via the club’s X handle, with the club wishing their star man a speedy recovery. They posted;

De Bruyne medical update https://t.co/OVoazBRVkk

— Official SSC Napoli (@en_sscnapoli) October 27, 2025

The announcement follows weeks of speculation after reports emerged suggesting De Bruyne was in a rift with head coach Antonio Conte claims the Belgian midfielder firmly dismissed, stating he remains fully committed to the team and the manager’s project.

The former Manchester City star had also been in fine form for his country, scoring during Belgium’s 4-2 win over Wales in the last international break a testament to the quality and leadership Napoli will be missing during his recovery spell.

Softfootball understands that Napoli are already evaluating tactical adjustments to manage De Bruyne’s absence, with Conte considering possible short-term rearrangement in midfield ahead of a demanding winter schedule.