Man City lose Rodri to horror injury against Arsenal as star midfielder hobbles off in distress after worrying scenes

The European Championship winner has been eased into the 2024-25 campaign by Pep Guardiola following his exploits with Spain over the summer. Rodri may, however, be heading for a more enforced spell on the sidelines after picking up an unfortunate knock.

The 28-year-old midfielder did manage his first 90 minutes of the season last time out in the Champions League against Inter. Having come through that game unscathed the decision was taken to include him from the off in a crunch clash with Arsenal.

Guardiola was forced to shuffle his pack early on at the Etihad Stadium as Rodri had to be helped from the field. After some initially worrying scenes, as he laid on the turf holding his leg, the Spaniard did get back to his feet.

Rodri hit the turf inside the opening seconds of the game, after tangling with Kai Havertz. He played on from there but was left flat on his back again after seeing his knee buckle when trying to evade Thomas Partey during a corner routine.

City will be hoping for a positive update on Rodri from their medical team, as he was taken down the tunnel for checks. His absence has proved costly for the reigning champions of England in the past, although Mateo Kovacic – who came on against the Gunners – is more than capable of providing cover.