Rodri spotted heading for hospital consultation in Barcelona as Man City fear key midfielder has suffered season-ending injury against Arsenal

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has been photographed entering a specialist hospital in Barcelona, ​​the first time he has been seen since suffering a likely competition-ending injury during Sunday’s climactic Premier League clash with Arsenal.

The Spaniard, who is one of the favourites to win the upcoming Ballon d’Or title, is crucial to City’s style of play and success, having been subbed off in the 21st minute against Arsenal.

Rodri came into defensive contact with Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey and fell, clutching his right knee and having to be taken away by medical staff and immediately left the pitch.

Tests were carried out on Monday which revealed the severity of the injury and a further series of tests are expected to confirm that Rodri will be sidelined for months.

The 28-year-old has now arrived in Barcelona for a consultation with injury specialist Dr Ramon Cugat, who will determine the severity of Rodri’s injury and the duration of his absence.

Rodri has been spotted arriving at hospital in Barcelona for a consultation over a knee injury

The City midfielder suffered a worrying knee injury in Sunday’s draw against Arsenal

There are concerns that Rodri will have to remain sidelined for the rest of the season

On the positive side, Rodri attended the meeting without crutches or any other walking aid, entering the building supporting his own weight in the presence of a member of City’s medical team.

However, it is widely expected that he will be sidelined for a lengthy period given the seriousness with which City are treating the injury as they seek a leading diagnosis.

The expected period of Rodri’s absence will require Pep Guardiola to find a new midfield system that takes into account the loss of arguably his team’s most important player.

City manager Pep Guardiola faces nightmare selection problem if Rodri suffers long-term injury

He has not played for a losing team in the league since February 2023. All three of City’s defeats last season came when the 28-year-old was away, but he improved his performances to win the title when he was fit again.

The 2-2 draw for Arsenal was Rodri’s first start since picking up an injury during the summer break, which he sustained in Arsenal’s Euro 2024 final win over England.

Mateo Kovacic has already replaced Rodri, while Ilkay Gundogan and Rico Lewis could also be deployed in more defensive midfield positions.

City will be without their star midfielder for the next three games as they face Watford, Newcastle and Slovan Bratislava.