Manchester City midfielder Rodri is facing a period on the sidelines after sustaining ligament damage in his right knee. The club confirmed the injury without specifying a timeline for his potential return. The Spain international, who is a strong contender for this year's Ballon d'Or award, was forced off the pitch in the early stages of City's recent 2-2 draw against Arsenal in the Premier League.
Rodri sought specialist consultation in Spain following the match, where it was determined that he had suffered a ligament injury. City is currently assessing the extent of the damage and the expected recovery period. Manager Pep Guardiola indicated that Rodri could be out for an extended period, although there are differing opinions on the severity of the injury.
The absence of Rodri is a significant setback for Manchester City's pursuit of a fifth consecutive Premier League title, as he plays a crucial role in the team's defensive stability and ball distribution. Last season, City struggled in his absence, losing four out of nine games across all competitions compared to just one defeat in 50 matches when he was present.
Guardiola praised Rodri as the 'best midfielder in the world' and emphasized his irreplaceable value to the team. The midfielder's injury occurred during a clash with Arsenal's Thomas Partey, prompting concerns over player workload and the risk of injuries in an increasingly congested football calendar.
Rodri, who recently won the Euro 2024 tournament with Spain and was named the player of the competition, had expressed concerns about the growing number of matches players are required to participate in. The expansion of tournaments like the Champions League and the introduction of new competitions such as the revamped Club World Cup have raised issues regarding player welfare and the potential for more injuries.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag echoed these concerns, highlighting the challenges faced by top players due to the demanding schedule. The increased workload on players has led to discussions about potential strikes and legal challenges from players' unions in response to the evolving landscape of football competitions.
