Rodri jarred his knee horribly before hobbling off the pitch (Picture: AMA/Getty Images)
Manchester City are hopeful Rodri has avoided a serious knee injury with Pep Guardiola also confident Kevin de Bruyne will return to action sooner rather than later.
Rodri was forced off after just 16 minutes in Sunday’s Premier League showdown with Arsenal, jarring his right knee inside his own box.
The Spain international fought back tears as he limped off the pitch with Mateo Kovacic brought onto replace him.
Rodri has been a hugely influential presence in City’s midfield with any long-term absence serving as a major blow to their plans for more silverware this season.
But reports in Spain suggest the injury outlook is optimistic. El Larguero report tests carried out on Sunday night ruled out a ‘serious’ injury with further scans today to provide a clearer picture on the situation.
But the report would suggest Rodri’s injury is not as bad as first feared.
‘Rodri is a strong man,’ Guardiola said after the 2-2 draw with the Gunners.
Rodri was helped off the pitch by City’s medical staff (Picture: AMA/Getty Images)
‘He left the pitch in this action because he felt something. Otherwise, Rodri stays there. Rodri is a vocal guy, has presence… He’s the best holding midfielder in the world, a potential Ballon d’Or winner, I would love it. He’s important. But it’s happened.’
De Bruyne meanwhile missed Sunday’s game having been forced off at half-time in the goalless draw with Inter Milan last Wednesday.
The Belgium international appeared to have picked up a hamstring injury but Guardiola is hopeful he will also avoid a lengthy spell on the sidelines.
De Bruyne is unlikely to be involved in Tuesday’s Carabao Cup third round meeting with Watford but did not rule out a return this weekend against Newcastle United.
‘I don’t think it will be long,’ Guardiola said. ‘I won’t say Watford, I don’t know for Newcastle but I think it will not be long.’
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