Rodri is dazed due to injury; could it be that talent has paid the price for glory?

Man City suffered a major blow as Rodri had to leave the pitch early because of an injury during the match against Brentford, posing a serious threat to their Premier League title chase.

Man City experienced a tense evening at Gtech Stadium when key midfielder Rodri was forced off after just 20 minutes against Brentford. This is a significant setback to Pep Guardiola’s ambition to defend the title, as Rodri has long been regarded as an irreplaceable link in midfield.

The Spanish star showed signs of hamstring pain following Erling Haaland’s opening goal. He fell to the ground and required immediate medical attention. Despite trying to get up, Rodri grimaced in pain before being substituted by his compatriot Nico Gonzalez. His stunned expression has worried Man City fans, while Guardiola faces the risk of losing his tactical linchpin during a crucial phase of the Premier League.

In reality, Rodri’s fitness issues have been a major concern for over a year. The Brentford game marked only his 15th appearance for Man City since the end of the 2023-2024 season. Last season, he missed up to 53 matches for both club and Spain due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury, sidelining him for 236 days. Even before that, he was out for 43 days with a hamstring injury, missing three consecutive games.

In the current season, the 1996-born star continues to face difficulties, having already missed two matches due to a knee injury. Therefore, Rodri’s latest limping off the pitch undoubtedly unsettles Man City. This newest injury could be a turning point that shakes Man City’s hopes of winning the Premier League in this fiercely competitive campaign.

Known for his solid playing style, ability to control the tempo, and precise passing, Rodri is considered the heartbeat of the blue team’s midfield. Losing him means Guardiola not only loses a player but also the balance of the entire system. With the Premier League becoming increasingly intense, any absence of Rodri could cost Man City dearly.

Currently, fans are awaiting detailed medical results during the upcoming national team break to fully understand Rodri’s condition. The big question remains: how will Man City cope if their key midfield star has to remain sidelined for an extended period?