Manchester City's Rodri set to miss rest of season with ACL tear: Reports

Manchester City have suffered a huge blow to their bid to retain the Premier League crown as midfielder Rodri is set to miss the rest of the season due to an anterior cruciate ligament tear. The Spaniard suffered the injury during the draw against Arsenal.

In Short

• Rodri suffered the injury early in the 1st half against Arsenal
• Rodri is considered to be a frontrunner for the Ballon d'Or
• Rodri has been a pivotal part in City's champion side

Manchester City midfielder Rodri is expected to miss the remainder of the season after tests on Monday indicated he suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in his right knee during Sunday's 2-2 draw with Arsenal, according to a report from ESPN. Further tests are planned, but the signs point toward a serious injury, with Rodri likely to undergo surgery in Barcelona. This means that Rodri could be out of action for up to 9 months.

City salvaged a last-minute equalizer through John Stones to secure the draw at the Etihad Stadium, keeping them at the top of the Premier League table with 13 points from five games. However, the biggest low point for them was when Rodri had to be taken off the field after sustaining an injury to his right leg during a corner sequence for the defending Premier League champions. The Spanish midfielder would immediately go down early in the first half, clutching his leg and in visible distress.

Rodri would then have to be taken away from the field with the help of the City medical staff and was replaced by Mateo Kovacic. Rodri, who was named the player of the tournament at Euro 2024 after helping Spain to victory, is amongst the frontrunners for the Ballon d'Or.

The 28-year-old had recently voiced concerns about player workloads, hinting that players were "close" to striking. Rodri played 63 matches for club and country last season, with his campaign extending until the Euro 2024 final on July 14.

"I think we are close to that; it is easy to understand. I think it's something general. I think if you ask any player, he will say the same -- it is not the opinion of Rodri or whatever. I think it's the general opinion of the players. And if it keeps this way, there will be a moment where we have no other option, I really think, but let's see. I don't know what's going to happen, but it's something that worries us because we are the guys that suffer."

Rodri's injury a serious setback for City

Rodri's injury is a major setback for City as they pursue their fifth consecutive Premier League title. Guardiola's side are yet to face the likes of Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United this season and the midfielder will certainly leave a big void for the defending champions.

City will be facing Watford in the 3rd round of the Carabao Cup on September 24, Tuesday, before taking on Newcastle United in the Premier League on Saturday, September 28.