Manchester City midfielder Rodri will miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season after undergoing surgery for a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) on Friday.
The 28-year-old Spain international also sustained meniscus damage during City’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal last Sunday.
“This season is over for him,” confirmed City manager Pep Guardiola. “We got the worst news, but it is what it is. We are here to support him in his recovery, step by step.”
An ACL injury typically sidelines players for six months to a year, and Rodri’s absence could pose a significant challenge to City’s hopes of securing a fifth consecutive Premier League title.
Guardiola acknowledged the void left by the influential midfielder, stating, “We don’t have a similar player, but the team must step up to replace what Rodri has given us since his arrival.”
Rodri’s importance was highlighted last season when City lost four out of nine games without him, compared to just one defeat in 50 matches with him on the field. Additionally, Rodri played a pivotal role in Spain’s European Championship victory this summer and is among the favorites for the prestigious Ballon d’Or.
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Guardiola also warned that Rodri’s road to full fitness could take longer than just recovering from the surgery, hinting that even after his return, he might not regain his best form for eight or nine months.
“With an ACL injury, after nine months, you usually face muscular problems for a while. It’s a longer process,” Guardiola explained.
Rodri’s absence adds to City’s injury concerns, with the team already navigating key fixtures without midfield star Kevin De Bruyne.
