Man City issue Rodri injury statement but questions still linger
Manchester City have confirmed a major injury blow with news that Rodri has damaged a ligament in his right knee and faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
Rodri made his first Premier League start of the season on Sunday after a delayed return following his European Championship win with Spain in the summer. However, he was forced off less than 20 minutes into the game after badly jarring his knee while he made a run from a corner.
City players were immediately concerned, with Ederson coming up from his penalty area to check on the condition of the star midfielder. Further medical tests on Monday have confirmed that Rodri has suffered a knee ligament injury and Pep Guardiola said on Tuesday he will be out for a 'long time'. Reports have claimed this week he could miss most if not all of the rest of the campaign.
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In a statement, the club said: "Manchester City FC can confirm that Rodri has suffered a ligament injury to his right knee. The injury was sustained during the first half of this weekend’s 2-2 draw with Arsenal in the Premier League.
"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."
With Rodri having been arguably the best player in the Premier League over the last two years and inarguably the best in his position in world football, the injury is a serious blow to City's chances of success