Things are currently unstable at Manchester City following the injury suffered by midfielder Rodri in their clash with Arsenal on matchday 5 of the 2024/25 Premier League season.
The Spaniard collided with Thomas Partey of Arsenal in the 21st minute and had to be escorted off the pitch for treatment. His absence changed the complexion of the game for the Cityzens who had to fight to get a draw from the tie.
Before that game, Rodri just returned from injury in Manchester City’s UEFA Champions League stalemate with Inter Milan where he started and played a full 90 minutes after a cameo against Brentford in week 4. The Spaniard had always complained about the fixture frequency and congestion for European teams, warning that players’ bodies are at risk of injury and breaking down if nothing was done.
“I think we are close to that, it is easy to understand,” the 28-year-old, who played 63 games for club and country last season, said in a recent interview. “I think it’s something general. I think if you ask any player he will say the same, it is not the opinion of Rodri or whatever. I think it’s the general opinion of the players.“
“And if it remains this way, there will be a moment where we have no other option, I really think but let’s see. I don’t know what’s going to happen but it’s something that worries us because we are the guys that suffer.”
It is poetic that he is one of the first casualties of this congested fixture, which is now a problem for Manchester City who have to navigate four fixtures in less than 14 days before the next international break.
Guardiola said immediately after Sunday’s match that he did not know the extent of Rodri’s injury as he declared the Spaniard the best holding midfield player in the game.
“Rodri is strong,” said Guardiola. “He leaves the pitch in this action because he felt something, otherwise Rodri stays there. “He’s the best holding midfielder in the world, he is a potential Ballon d’Or winner, I would love for him to win.”
More tests will be carried out in the 48 hours which will determine the extent of the player’s injury but the near future is not looking good for Manchester City, who will be forced to play without one of their most important players.
City will hold on with bated breaths as the extent of Rodri’s injury is determined.
