Manchester City’s attacking midfielder Rodri will be absent for the remainder of the season. He will underg ACL surgery on his right knee last Friday. He also sustained a meniscus injury during the recent 2-2 draw against Arsenal.

Statement from Manager

City manager Pep Guardiola confirmed the bad news, saying, “This season is over for him. We got the worst (news possible), but it is what it is.” Guardiola. He said that the club will assist Rodri all throughout the recovery period. This is when things may be done step by step.

Impact on Team Performance

Rodri was instrumental to Manchester City whose absence will heavily affect the team.  Last season, without him, they lost four of nine games. And they lost only once in 50 games with him in the team. “We do not have a similar player, but other players all together can replace what Rodri has brought since he came.” Guardiola about the need to change and find ways to compensate for Rodri’s loss.

Recovery Timeline

According to Guardiola, a player may also recover from the injury caused to the ACL within six months up to one year, though he or she comes back in a much harder way. The experienced manager said, “You have to be careful because when you have an ACL injury, in nine months, the year after you have problems, muscular problems for sure.” 

Conclusion

Rodri’s injury is coming against a backdrop of growing fears in the direction that an ever-increasing calendar attached to football is taking on the bodies of top players. He had shown concern, alongside other players, towards strikes by the players in case new events are added to the calendar, which will increase cases of injuries.
Before Manchester City face Newcastle, Manchester City will also be missing Kevin De Bruyne. He is also recovering from an injury sustained during a previous game.