Man City dealt a huge blow as Premier League champions confirm star midfielder Rodri suffered a serious knee injury in grudge match with Arsenal

Manchester City have confirmed that their star midfielder Rodri suffered a serious knee injury during Sunday’s top-place match against Arsenal.

Rodri limped off the pitch in the first half after falling to the ground without appearing to have been hit as he sprinted towards the near post to attempt a corner.

He was writhing in pain as he was treated, with City fans fearing he had suffered a long-term injury. On Monday afternoon, reports emerged that Rodri had torn the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee.

The Premier League champions confirmed the news on Tuesday, with the 28-year-old likely to miss the majority of the season.

In a statement from the club, City wrote: ‘Manchester City FC can confirm that Rodri has sustained an injury to his right knee.

The Spain international limped off the field with the help of City’s medical department

Pep Guardiola’s worst fears have been realised as Rodri is now out for an extended period with a serious knee injury

The injury was sustained during the first half of the 2-2 draw against Arsenal in the Premier League this weekend.

The midfielder travelled to Spain this week for a consultation with a specialist, following initial tests in Manchester.

“The assessment is ongoing to determine the full extent of the injury and the expected prognosis. Everyone at the club wishes him a speedy recovery.”

Rodri’s injury is a huge setback for Pep Guardiola’s men, as he has played a crucial role in their success in recent seasons.

Since joining the club five years ago, Rodri has made 260 appearances and won four league titles and the Champions League.

He scored the winning goal that put an end to City’s run last year by beating Internazionale 1-0 in the Champions League final.

Rodri also won the European Championship with Spain in July and is one of the main contenders to win this year’s Ballon d’Or.

But now, after his serious injury, he is out for a long period.

The ligament pain comes just days after he called on authorities to relax the football schedule, suggesting players could go on strike if their concerns were not heard.

Rodri suffered his devastating injury just days after complaining about the football calendar as he suggested players could go on strike in the future

City will compete in five different competitions this season, including the recently expanded Club World Cup next summer.

Rodri may be back in time for that tournament, but it seems unlikely he will play a part in the title defence or attempt to win another European trophy.

Meanwhile, Guardiola must find a way to play without Rodri, something he has struggled with in the past.

City have won 74 percent of games Rodri has played in since his arrival in 2019, but this drops to 64 percent for games he has missed.