Pep Guardiola provides update on Rodri after groin injury picked up against Arsenal that could threaten City’s season run-in
Manchester City are sweating on the fitness of Rodri as Pep Guardiola prepares for a critical sequence of fixture. The Sky Blues head into a busy week dealing with a series of challenges that could impact their pursuit of domestic silverware.
Guardiola’s side are set to play away at Burnley on Wednesday before facing Southampton in the FA Cup semi-finals on Sunday.
The Spanish international is currently being assessed for a groin problem, a setback that represents another blow in a stop-start year for the vice-captain.
This latest issue is particularly frustrating for the player, who has already been forced to sit out 11 Premier League fixtures this term due to recurring complications with both his hamstring and his knee.
Despite these frequent interruptions, he has remained a vital component of Guardiola‘s system, amassing 31 appearances across all competitions.
The Catalan coach admitted after the 2-1 win over Arsenal that the club are waiting for clarity on the duration of his absence.
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“I don’t know how long Rodri will be out,” Guardiola confessed. “[It’s the] Groin I think the doctor said but we will see. We will make a test tonight or tomorrow.”
Kai Havertz cancelled out Rayan Cherki’s opener, but Erling Haaland netted a second for Manchester City after the break to secure all three points for the hosts.
Who will replace Rodri?
The potential absence of the Spaniard leaves a significant tactical hole in the heart of the City side, forcing Guardiola to choose between several different profiles to maintain the team’s rhythm.
Mateo Kovačić could be a candidate to step in, as the Croatian international possesses the technical composure and experience, but a lack of match fitness makes him a doubt.
Nico González, who replaced Rodri against the Gunners, could also be an option for the game against Burnley.
However, Guardiola has previously shown a willingness to be creative in these situations, occasionally dropping Bernardo Silva into a deeper role or utilising the versatility of Rico Lewis to add an extra body to the central areas from full-back.
With the Burnley fixture likely arriving too soon for a recovery, the focus shifts to how City will adapt their defensive transitions without their primary protector.
Rodri’s ability to break up play and dominate aerially has been a safety net for a backline that has also dealt with its own injury struggles recently.
