Manchester City Suffer Blow As Rodri Faces Two-Three Weeks Out With Muscle Injury

Manchester City have been dealt a fresh injury setback after star midfielder Rodri limped off during the 1-0 win over Brentford.

The Spaniard, who has already battled serious fitness issues in recent seasons, lasted just 20 minutes before sinking to the turf clutching the back of his right leg. He was replaced by compatriot Nico González in the 22nd minute.

Not Another Long Layoff

Rodri, 28, has featured in six of City’s nine matches so far this season, after missing most of the previous campaign with ACL and meniscus injuries. Thankfully, this latest setback is less severe.

Speaking after the game, manager Pep Guardiola confirmed the midfielder will likely be out for two to three weeks.

“It is muscular so two weeks or three weeks. Of course I don’t want to lose him even a little bit but it is a pity because he is such an important player. We tried to take care of him but it is what it is,” Guardiola told reporters.

Guardiola’s Rotation Dilemma

Guardiola admitted that City have been cautious with Rodri’s workload, limiting his minutes to around an hour when possible.

“I would love to have Rodri every three days but after one year it happens all the time, it is so demanding,” the City boss explained.

The decision to withdraw him early during the Champions League clash with Monaco earlier in the week sparked criticism, as City went on to miss out on victory in extra time. But Guardiola insists the rotation is necessary to protect one of his most important players.

City’s Midfield Challenge

Rodri’s absence, even for a few weeks, will be a concern for Guardiola. The Spaniard’s ability to dictate tempo and shield the backline has made him one of City’s most crucial assets.

With fixtures coming thick and fast, the pressure will fall on González and other midfield options to step up until Rodri returns.

For City fans, the silver lining is that the injury is not long-term — and the midfielder is expected back before the season’s decisive winter run.