Whilst delighted with the overall outcome of their title clash with Arsenal, which saw them claiming a last-gasp point, Manchester City have been rocked by the news they were dreading.
Early in the first-half, Spanish midfield star Rodri went down as his knee gave way in the box.
Rodri, one of the favourites to win the Ballon d’Or next month, was helped off the pitch in clear distress as he seemingly knew something serious had happened.
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Man City expect Rodri to miss the rest of the season
Man City sources have confirmed to HITC that they do indeed expect Rodri to miss the rest of the Premier League season.
We understand initial tests have indicated ‘severe’ damage that will require surgery to repair the problem which sources suggesting it is an ACL injury.
Sources insist the club will not look to rush him back and whilst the hope is he could recover in time to make the final few weeks of the season, as yet there is no timeframe on his return.
Meeting set to discuss options
HITC now understands that City’s hierarchy are set to meet with Pep Guardiola during the international break in October to discuss their immediate plans for the New Year, which will include whether or not they need to bring in additional cover for Rodri.
City do have other midfielders within their squad including the likes of Mateo Kovacic and Matheus Nunes, whilst the option of using a defender pushing on is something they have utilised many times and is a role the likes of Manuel Akanji, John Stones and Rico Lewis are all accustomed to.
However, the options will be analysed in the coming weeks to assess whether January reinforcements are required.
City already have one player arriving in January with attacking midfielder Claudio Echeverri coming in from River Plate.
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