Integral Manchester City midfielder set for a long spell on the sidelines

The influential midfielder Rodri is the latest casualty for Manchester City, having picked up a worrying ACL tear in the wake of the 2-2 draw with Arsenal. First-half screaming on the floor, holding his knee, was an early indicator of how serious it could get. Further medical checks confirmed the worst fears of an ACL tear -- one of the most debilitating injuries in football that often sidelines players for a long period of time.

Most ACL injuries happen in quick pivoting motions, awkward landings, or direct impacts common in most high-intensity sports like those that involve football. The anterior cruciate ligament is one of the major parts around the knee, which gives stability to the thigh bone and its connection to the shin bone. A tear in this area often presents players with a popping sensation, followed by pain and instability of the knee.

Rodri will likely miss the remainder of the 2024/25 season. Recovery from an ACL tear varies, and most players take anywhere between six to nine months to return back to full competitive action based on the outcome of rehabilitation. Players have to go through an aggressive rehab in order to avoid long-term complications, and a bit of premature action can lead to setbacks.

This is a huge blow for Manchester City in pursuit of all their ambitions in both the Premier League and Champions League. Pep Guardiola, the Manchester City manager, admitted the effects of losing Rodri, describing him as one of the best holding midfielders in the world.

The road to recovery will be long for Rodri, but he should return to his pre-injury form if managed properly. His absence, though, has left City with a huge hole in midfield as they look to help the team win more titles this season.