PARIS OLYMPIC GAMES
Manchester City midfielder Rodri will miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, confirms manager Pep Guardiola.
Rodri suffered the injury during City’s 2-2 Premier League draw against Arsenal on Sunday, limping off after a collision with Thomas Partey.
Medical tests in Barcelona revealed the severity of the injury, requiring surgery.
Guardiola announced on Friday that Rodri underwent successful surgery, confirming his unavailability for the rest of the season.
“He had surgery this morning—an ACL and some meniscus, so next season he will be here. This season is over.”
The Spanish midfielder’s absence is a significant blow to City’s title hopes. Guardiola described Rodri as “irreplaceable” but pointed out the team’s collective strength.
“We don’t have a similar player, but the other players all together can replace what Rodri has given us.”
Guardiola ruled out linking Rodri’s injury to his international duty with Spain, saying, “I am not a doctor. Nobody knows.”
Regarding potential January transfers to replace Rodri, Guardiola stated, “We will talk; we will see what is going on. We have time to see.” Mateo Kovacic, Ilkay Gundogan, and John Stones are potential alternatives.
Possible replacements include Bruno Guimaraes of Newcastle, Adam Wharton of Crystal Palace, and Joshua Kimmich of Bayern Munich.
Experts believe Rodri’s injury could significantly impact City’s title chances.
Manchester City faces Newcastle United on Saturday, seeking to maintain their momentum despite Rodri’s absence.
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