Rodri will be ruled out for a significant period of time with a serious knee injury and there are fears that he could be out for the remainder of the 24-25 season. Rodri suffered the injury 21 minutes into Sunday's match at the Etihad Stadium between Manchester City and Arsenal.

While initial tests revealed a serious injury, further examination will take place in Spain to confirm whether he tore his ACL.

Rodri stumbled and fell after making a front-post run at a corner while being defended by Thomas Partey. Players quickly gestured for him to receive medical attention after he immaturely appeared in pain.

Rodri hadn't started a match this season until Sunday's fixture as he worked his way back from the Euros this summer. Last week, Rodri suggested players could consider a strike over the rising volume of matches in the soccer calendar.

As one of the favorites to win the Ballon d'Or, City will struggle to replace the quality Rodri brings as the world's best defensive midfielders. Last season, Rodri missed four Premier League matches and City was 1-3-0 on those occasions. 

The surprising transfer for Ilkay Gundogan late in the summer window will take on an increased level of significance for City as he can help cover for Rodri.