In a recent interview, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola addressed the team’s setback regarding Spanish midfielder Rodri, who will be sidelined for the rest of the season due to an injury sustained during last weekend’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal. “This is the worst news for us,” Guardiola expressed on the 27th.
Rodri’s injury occurred after he was substituted mid-game, and Guardiola shared that the 28-year-old underwent surgery the same morning to repair his anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus. “So he will see us next season; this season is over for him,” Guardiola confirmed.
Guardiola emphasized Rodri’s significance to the team, recalling last season when Manchester City triumphed for the Premier League title against a formidable Arsenal squad. He previously labeled Rodri as irreplaceable, noting that when Rodri missed five matches last season, the team managed to win just one of them.
“We don’t have players similar to him, but if the rest of the team comes together, I believe we can fill the gap he’s leaving,” Guardiola stated. “We need to unite and find a way to compete without such an important player missing for several matches.”
Looking ahead, Manchester City will face Newcastle United away from home on the 28th, with Belgian midfielder Kevin De Bruyne also set to remain sidelined. Currently, the “Sky Blues” are leading the Premier League standings with four wins and one draw, amassing a total of 13 points.
