Manchester City have confirmed that midfielder Rodri suffered a “ligament” injury in his right knee during Sunday’s draw with Arsenal.
A source has told ESPN that the extent of Rodri’s injury is not clear and there is a chance he will opt not to undergo surgery. As reported by ESPN on Monday, initial scans pointed toward an ACL tear that would likely rule the Spain midfielder out for the rest of the season.
However, depending on the final decision taken by medical staff, Rodri could be out between five and eight months.
“One doctor says big, big injury, one not as much,” Guardiola told the BBC after the Carabao Cup victory over Watford.
City said in a statement: “The midfielder travelled to Spain to seek specialist consultation this week, following initial tests in Manchester. Assessment remains ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the injury and expected prognosis.
“Everyone at the club wishes him a speedy recovery and [Man City] will bring you regular updates regarding his rehabilitation.”
He was widely expected to vie with Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior for the Ballon d’Or, and his injury will come as a significant blow to City, who are chasing an unprecedented fifth successive Premier League title.
“We will have a good season,” Guardiola added.
“I trust a lot in my players. I have a duty to find a solution. He’s irreplaceable, when you don’t play with the best player in the world. My duty is to find a solution, be competitive like many years and continue to be there.”
Rodri was substituted in the 21st minute of last weekend’s clash after falling to the ground and clutching his knee as he made a front-post run while a corner was being taken.
John Stones scored a 98th-minute equaliser to secure City’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. The result kept Pep Guardiola’s team at the top of the table having earned 13 points from their first five games.
Rodri was named the player of the tournament at Euro 2024 after playing a key role as Spain won their second title.
Last Tuesday, Rodri suggested that players are “close” to going on strike over concerns about their increasing workload amid expanding club and international tournaments.
The 28-year-old played 63 games for club and country last season in a campaign that did not finish until the Euro 2024 final on July 14.
City will make a trip to St. James’ Park to play Newcastle United on Saturday.
Their Champions League campaign continues next week with an away game against Slovan Bratislava.