Wed Sep 25 07:54:12 UTC 2024: ## Rodri’s Injury a Major Blow for Man City, Boost for Title Rivals: Guardiola

**Manchester, England** – Manchester City’s title hopes have taken a significant hit with the news that key midfielder Rodri will be sidelined for an extended period due to a knee injury. The Spaniard sustained the injury during Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Arsenal and is set to undergo surgery.

While manager Pep Guardiola remains hopeful that the recovery time could be less than initially feared, sources have indicated that Rodri could be out for between five and eight months, depending on the type of surgery required.

“He will be out for a long time,” Guardiola confirmed at a press conference on Tuesday. “But there are some opinions that it will be less than we expect. Right now I cannot tell you. We are waiting for the last phone calls and the type of surgery he needs.”

The 28-year-old, a key member of Guardiola’s squad since 2019 and a crucial player for Spain’s Euro 2020 triumph, was considered a strong contender for the Ballon d’Or alongside Vinícius Júnior.

“He’s irreplaceable, when you don’t play with the best player in the world,” Guardiola acknowledged. “My duty is to find a solution, be competitive like many years and continue to be there.”

Rodri’s absence is a significant boost for Arsenal and Liverpool, City’s main rivals for the Premier League title.

Meanwhile, City secured their place in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup with a 2-1 victory over Championship side Watford. Jérémy Doku and Matheus Nunes scored for City, while Tom Ince pulled one back for the visitors.

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