It’s going to be a long season for Manchester City, as Pep Guardiola officially announced that midfield anchor Rodri has been ruled out for the rest of the season with an ACL injury.
Guardiola confirmed the news a day before City’s Premier League clash against Newcastle United, stating that the Spaniard will not be available till next season.
“Unfortunately Rodri got the worst outcome,” said Guardiola.
“He got surgery this morning, ACL and some meniscus. This season is over for Rodri. We are here to support him, while the other players all together can replace what Rodri has.
“Next season, he will be here”.
Just seconds into the high-intensity fixture that ended 2-2, Rodri was forced off after just 16 minutes in Sunday’s Premier League showdown with Arsenal, jarring his right knee inside his own box.
The Spain international fought back tears as he limped off the pitch with Mateo Kovacic brought onto replace him.
Reports from Spain suggested the injury is worse than initially thought. Early tests indicate that the 28-year-old might have torn his cruciate ligament—a devastating blow for both him and City fans.
As City’s anchor in the defensive midfield, aspirited leader in his own right, and a potential contender for the upcoming Ballon D’Or, Rodri’s absence will most definitely leave a lasting mark, or rather an absence in the middle of their field.
However, City boss Pep Guardiola expressed belief in his midfield general and his ability to bounce back.
‘Rodri is a strong man,’ Guardiola said after the 2-2 draw with the Gunners.
‘He left the pitch in this action because he felt something. Otherwise, Rodri stays there. Rodri is a vocal guy, has presence… He’s the best holding midfielder in the world, a potential Ballon d’Or winner, I would love it. He’s important. But it’s happened.’
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