New Delhi: Manchester City’s midfielder Rodri left the pitch after sustaining an injury in the first half of the game as his side took on Premier League trophy contender Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium. It was a worrying site for Citizens as Rodri has been the backbone of their midfield.
The 28-year-old was attempting a City corner when he got tangled with Arsenal’s Thomas Partey and went down with pain after twisting his knee. He had to be replaced by Mateo Kovacic. When asked about Rodri’s situation, manager Pep Guardiola was unsure of the situation with Rodri.
Wishing you a speedy recovery, Rodri! 🩵 pic.twitter.com/IIh2q7w21C
— City Xtra (@City_Xtra) September 22, 2024
However, even Guardiola was concerned as Rodri is a “strong” player and for him to leave the pitch meant the injury was really serious. While he left the field when City were trailing, John Stones’s late goal helped them level in the second half’s extra time, as the two teams settled for a 2-2 draw.
The Spanish midfielder also had an incident earlier, when he and Arsenal’s striker Kai Havertz collided within seconds of starting the game. His teammate Bernardo Silva stated that Rodri wasn’t using crutches, but a medical team still needed to confirm his upcoming participation.
Rodri’s importance in the City midfield
Rodri had already missed the start of the season owing to a hamstring injury he had sustained during the European Championship. Guardiola stated that his participation does make a difference in how the side plays, and he even felt that Rodri was definitely a contender for the Ballon d’Or.
Rodri is indeed one of the best midfielders in the world right now and certainly completes the City midfield. City wins 74% of the games and loses 11% when he is in the mix, compared to 64% of winning and 24% of loss when he misses out. He commands the rhythm of the game very well. The Spaniard’s ability to break when the opposition tries pushing and attacking has even helped Spain lift the Eruo 2024.
Guardiola was content with the result, though he was a bundle of nerves during the game, especially when Arsenal equalised in the 22nd minute. In his frustration, he even kicked his dugout chair. Still, in reflection, Guardiola has said that games with Arsenal are high-intensity ones, and the team has to handle the pressure.
After the Manchester City midfielder sustained injury during the side’s clash with Arsenal, concerns arise over the state of Rodri’s injury. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
