Guardiola Reveals Rodri Ruled Out With Knee Pain Ahead Of Monaco Clash

Pep Guardiola has confirmed that key midfielder Rodri will miss Manchester City’s next game. He is experiencing ongoing knee pain, related to a previous injury.

WHAT HAPPENED?

In a recent training session, Rodri told Guardiola that his knee pain was too severe for him to play. Guardiola says the Spanish midfielder will not be pushed to risk further injury, stating another player must step in if Rodri cannot participate. The issue affects the same knee injury Rodri suffered during the Club World Cup; he is ruled out until mid-September. It is unclear if he will be fit in time for Manchester City‘s crucial Champions League game against Monaco, as the medical staff has not yet ruled how long he will be out.

MANCHESTER CITY’S SEASON SO FAR

Manchester City are currently battling at the top of the Premier League standings. Rodri is regarded as City’s most important player in midfield, contributing to their season so far with defensive stability, as well as goals and assists. His absence is significant, as City are preparing for a crucial European fixture. Their next game is against Monaco in the group stage of the Champions League. Monaco is also making progress in their Ligue 1 position and is now in third place. The game is crucial for both teams’ qualifying hopes.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR CITY AND RODRI?

City will now have to rely on other midfield options such as Mateo Kovacic or Kalvin Phillips, as the team waits to hear more about Rodri’s injury. The medical team will closely monitor Rodri’s knee and pain levels over the next few days. Guardiola’s team needs to remain focused as their upcoming games could have a significant impact on their season in both the Premier League and Champions League. Much depends on how they perform without their star Spanish midfielder.