UEFA imposed a deadline of midnight Thursday for the submission of updated squad lists for European competitions. With a restriction of three new signings permitted during the midseason transfer window, City opted to exclude teenage defender Vitor Reis, who was acquired from Palmeiras last month.
Rodri aims to make his comeback around April, estimating a recovery period of “six to seven months” following his ACL tear in the right knee sustained against Arsenal on September 22. The Champions League quarterfinals are set to commence on April 8.
The English champions face a significant challenge to remain in the tournament without their star midfielder Rodri, who netted the decisive goal in the 2023 final against Inter Milan.
Manchester City will compete against Real Madrid in a two-leg knockout playoff, scheduled for next Tuesday and February 19. The victor will advance to face either Atletico Madrid or Bayer Leverkusen in the round of 16.
New additions to coach Pep Guardiola’s Champions League squad include midfielder Nico Gonzalez, who can fill in for Rodri, forward Omar Marmoush, and defender Abdukodir Khusanov.