Rodri reaction speaks volumes as Man City star spotted for first time after brutal injury blow

Manchester City midfielder Rodri cut a downbeat figure after flying to Spain for treatment.

The Spanish destroyer picked up a worrying looking injury against Arsenal on Sunday. Rodri went up for a header midway through the first-half but landed awkwardly. He required lengthy medical treatment after the incident and was visibly distraught. Rodri eventually hobbled off of the pitch without a stretcher.

Offering an update on his midfielder’s injury after the game, Pep Guardiola said: “I don't know yet, I didn't ask the doctors. Rodri is strong. He leaves the pitch in this action because he felt something, otherwise Rodri stays there.

"He's the best holding midfielder in the world, he is a potential Ballon d'Or winner, I would love for him to win. But it happened in the first minutes. These games with Arsenal are like that and we have to handle it. We did it. We did really good things."

READ MORE: Sky Sports fans can save £216 on their bill, here's three other reasons you'll want to pick it

READ MORE: Manchester City star Rodri sees worst fears confirmed in crushing injury blow

But since then, the worst possible news has come for Rodri and City. The midfielder is expected to be on the sidelines for the majority of the campaign with a cruciate ligament injury.

Rodri has since flown to Spain for treatment. He was spotted in a white hoodie coming out of a building. The midfielder had a slight limp and was clearly in pain.

Rodri’s absence is sure to be a bitter blow for Guardiola and his side. The Spaniard has been a key player for the club ever since a £62m move from Atletico Madrid in 2019. He has since made 260 appearances for the club and scored 26 goals. He has helped the club to four consecutive Premier League titles, the 2023 Champions League, the FA Cup and two League Cups.

How much of a miss will Rodri be? Share your thoughts in the comments below

Rodri had previously warned that players could be forced to strike due to the growing demands put on players with packed fixture schedules. Speaking just last week, he said: "I think we are close to that. 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."

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.