Return feels like a 'gift', states Rodri after Manchester Citys late slip

Rodri described his comeback to full fitness as a "gift" even though Manchester City let slip two points with a late 1-1 draw against a Chelsea team without a manager on Sunday.

Enzo Fernandez struck an equaliser in the 94th minute at the Etihad Stadium, which hit Citys Premier League title challenge hard by leaving them six points behind top side Arsenal.

Rodri had missed much of the last 16 months due to a cruciate knee ligament tear from September 2024.

The Spanish midfielder excelled in his initial start since October and mentioned feeling robust following various muscle issues after overcoming the major knee injury.

"For me this is a gift. The ordeal I endured was awful so whether we win draw or lose at this stage everything feels like a gift," said the 2024 Ballon dOr recipient.

"Just playing enjoying the match and getting my smile back that is what counts and the wins and team triumphs will follow. For now it is about maintaining fitness and savouring the sport.

"I had to go through adapting the body regarding the muscles. I feel strong. I require match rhythm yet considering where we are in the season and my background I am in good shape."

City paid the price for failing to capitalise on their strong first half showing versus a Chelsea outfit that dismissed manager Enzo Maresca on Thursday following only one victory in seven league outings.

Erling Haaland struck the post and Phil Foden missed the target prior to Tijjani Reijnders putting Pep Guardiolas squad ahead.

However they saw crucial centre backs Josko Gvardiol and Ruben Dias exit injured post interval before Fernandez nudged the ball in at the far post during added time.

"The opening half was superb we could have netted three or four," Rodri added.

"After the break we somewhat lost our way and they took charge.

"Every time a player departs due to injury it disrupts the balance naturally but the squad must adapt. It is no justification we possess plenty of skilled players yet in the latter period we dropped our intensity a touch."