Premier League champions Manchester City have announced that Rodri has suffered ligament damage to his right knee.
The Spain international was injured during the champions’ 2-2 draw against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
A statement on mancity.com noted: “Assessment is ongoing to determine the full extent of the injury and the expected prognosis. Everyone at the club wishes him a speedy recovery.”
Following initial tests in Manchester, the midfielder traveled to Spain this week for specialist consultation.
There have been reports suggesting he could miss the remainder of the season, but Pep Guardiola remains optimistic that the situation may not be as severe.
Before the club’s statement on Wednesday, the City manager commented: “We still don’t have a definitive answer. He’ll be out for a while, but some opinions suggest it might not be as bad as we expect.
“Unfortunately, he was injured. Right now, I can’t provide a timeline because we’re awaiting final updates from him and the doctors about the exact nature of the injury and any necessary surgery.”
Guardiola acknowledged the significant impact of Rodri’s absence, stating: “We don’t want this, but we will still have a good season. I have great faith in my players, and it’s my responsibility to find a solution.
“Rodri is irreplaceable, and we won’t have the best midfielder in the world for a considerable time. It’s definitely a major blow for us.
“But it’s football; injuries happen, and my job is to find a way to remain competitive, as we have for many years.”
Rodri was forced off the pitch in the first half of the match against Arsenal after going down without any contact, appearing to be in tears as he left the field.