Manchester City awaits final diagnosis on Rodri’s injury from medical team

Manchester City Pep Guardiola says the team is still awaiting word from medical professionals regarding the extent of injury sustained by important midfield player Rodri. 

The 28-year-old Spain international was replaced in the 21st minute of Sunday’s 2-2 Premier League draw between City and Arsenal due to a right knee injury.  During a collision at a corner with Thomas Partey of Arsenal, Rodri seemed to twist his joint. 

Asked to confirm whether he expects Rodri to be out for a “little while,” Guardiola replied, “Yep.

We are still waiting for the doctor’s decision, exactly what he has. When we know it, the club or myself, the spokesman of the club will announce it,” the city boss said on Tuesday. 

Rodri left for Spain on Monday to undergo preliminary testing; however, additional testing was necessary to determine the precise nature of the issue. 

Manchester City is extremely concerned about Rodri’s injury as they move through their current campaign. The team and its supporters are hoping for good news about his recuperation and comeback to competition. 

Speaking after Sunday’s match, Guardiola described Rodri as “the best holding midfielder in the world” and “a potential Ballon d’Or winner.” 

Rodri said this month that it would be “a dream” to win the Ballon d’Or, which is given to the best player in the world. 

Mateo Kovacic is an experienced midfield player and could replace Rodri. This is why Guardiola played him during Sunday’s match against Arsenal. However, there are other options besides him. Teenager Rico Lewis and John Stones—who have only started one game—have shown they can play in midfield. It is also possible that Phil Foden will be able to reenter the starting lineup if Ilkay Gundogan drops back. 

Rodri was named player of the tournament at Euro 2024 after assisting Spain in winning the trophy. The previous season, Rodri was instrumental in helping City win the Premier League for the fourth time in a row.