In a devastating blow for Manchester City, the club has confirmed that star midfielder Rodri has sustained knee ligament damage. The Spain international was forced off in the 21st minute of City’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday after a clash with Thomas Partey.
Reports surfaced on Monday suggesting that Rodri could miss the rest of the season with an anterior cruciate ligament tear in his right knee. Following initial tests in Manchester, the 28-year-old traveled to Barcelona for specialist consultation.
In an official statement, Manchester City stated, “Manchester City FC can confirm that Rodri has suffered a ligament injury to his right knee. Assessment remains ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the injury and expected prognosis. Everyone at the club wishes him a speedy recovery and mancity.com will bring you regular updates regarding his rehabilitation.”
Manager Pep Guardiola confirmed after the EFL Cup third-round victory over Watford that Rodri will require surgery and face a lengthy spell on the sidelines. With 260 appearances for City and 11 trophies to his name, Rodri has been a key figure for the team since his arrival in 2019.
Guardiola has heaped praise on Rodri, calling him the best holding midfielder in the world and tipping him as a potential Ballon d’Or winner. The absence of Rodri is expected to see City turn to options like Mateo Kovacic, Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva, Matheus Nunes, Rico Lewis, John Stones, and Kevin De Bruyne in midfield.
Manchester City’s upcoming fixtures include a trip to Newcastle United in the Premier League, followed by matches against Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League and Fulham before the international break. The team will have to navigate these games without Rodri, making his absence felt in the midfield.
