Rodri Sidelined Indefinitely: Guardiola Awaits Injury Diagnosis

Manchester City midfielder Rodri is expected to be sidelined for an extended period, according to manager Pep Guardiola. The team is awaiting confirmation from medical professionals regarding the severity of Rodri's knee injury, sustained during a Premier League match against Arsenal. Guardiola indicated that the club anticipates receiving a definitive diagnosis by Wednesday.

"Still we don't have the definitive [diagnosis] but he will be out for a long time - a while," Guardiola commented following City's League Cup victory over Watford. "But there are some opinions that maybe it will be less than we expected."

Rodri was forced off the pitch in the 21st minute of City's 2-2 draw against Arsenal after an incident involving Arsenal's Thomas Partey. The 28-year-old Spaniard appeared to twist his right knee during the collision.

Guardiola explained that the team is awaiting final medical assessments. "We are waiting for the last phone calls from him and the doctors for what definitely he has and the type of surgery he has to get. We expect that tonight, tomorrow we will know exactly."

Rodri, who was named Player of the Tournament at Euro 2024 after Spain's triumph, has been crucial to Manchester City's success. He played a key role in securing City's fourth consecutive Premier League title last season and has only lost one match for club or country in the past 18 months. During this period, he also helped City win the UEFA Super Cup and the Club World Cup.

Rodri's absence could pose a significant challenge for City. Since his arrival from Atlético Madrid in 2019, City have lost just 11% of their matches when he has been on the pitch, compared to a 24% loss rate without him. Guardiola acknowledged the difficulty of replacing him, stating, "When a team doesn't play with the best midfielder in the world for a long, long time, it is a big blow. Yes, he's irreplaceable. But I will find a solution."

Despite his injury, Rodri recently expressed his ambitions of winning the Ballon d'Or, calling it "a dream." The midfielder, who featured in 63 matches for City and Spain last season, voiced concerns over the increasing number of games players are required to play, citing the new Champions League format and the expanded Club World Cup as key contributors. He noted that players are "close to" striking over the issue.

Rodri's return is now subject to medical evaluations, and Guardiola's City will have to navigate an important stretch of the season without their star midfielder.