Midfielder ruled out for Burnley trip
Manchester City have been dealt a major concern ahead of the next stage of the title race after Rodri was ruled out of the trip to Burnley. The midfielder picked up a groin problem during the important win over Arsenal and had to come off near the end of the match.
After undergoing medical checks, Rodri was not cleared in time for the next league game. Pep Guardiola confirmed that the Spain international will not be ready for the Burnley fixture, leaving City without one of their most influential players at a key point in the season.
Doubt remains over FA Cup semi final return
Rodri’s condition also puts his involvement in doubt for the upcoming FA Cup semi final against Southampton at Wembley. Guardiola did not give a firm timeline for his return and said the club will continue to assess him over the next set of matches.
There is some hope inside City that the gap between fixtures could help his recovery. After the semi final, the team will have more than a week before returning to Premier League action against Everton, which may give Rodri extra time to regain fitness.
City may turn to Nico Gonzalez in midfield
With Rodri unavailable, Nico Gonzalez is one of the main options to step into the side. Guardiola backed him publicly and said he has already played an important role this season when Rodri has been missing.
That support suggests City trust him to take on more responsibility if needed. Even so, losing Rodri at this stage is a clear blow for a team still pushing on multiple fronts and trying to keep control of the title race.
Another injury concern adds to City’s problems
Rodri is not the only absence for City ahead of the Burnley game. Ruben Dias will also miss the match as he continues to recover from an ankle injury. That means Guardiola must manage another key change in defence while also adjusting his midfield.
Even with those setbacks, City will still expect to compete strongly and know that a win at Turf Moor could move them to the top of the table. But much of the attention will remain on Rodri and whether he can return in time for the final stretch of the campaign.
