Manchester City blow as Rodri ruled out with injury

Pep Guardiola has ruled Rodri out of Wednesday’s game, with the midfielder now racing to return for Everton

Rodri reacts with both hands on his head during a Manchester City match, with a blurred teammate bent over in the background. — Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images

Rodri will miss Manchester City’s Premier League meeting with Burnley on Wednesday night, handing Arsenal a small boost as the title race moves into its final stretch.

There is every chance more Arsenal supporters will be watching events at Turf Moor than City fans themselves, with Pep Guardiola’s side knowing a win by two clear goals or more would send them to the top of the table with five games left to play.

That leaves little room for error for Arsenal, so any setback for City is bound to draw attention, even if the champions should still be expected to have too much for a Burnley side sitting 19th in the table.

Rodri watches the ball closely during a Manchester City match, in a close-up action shot with the ball suspended in front of him. — Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images

Speaking about Rodri, Guardiola said: “I think he will not be ready for tomorrow and we will see for the next games,”

“Maybe [he will be back for] the semi-final with Southampton or in 12 or 13 days against Everton.”

Rodri is reportedly dealing with a groin injury picked up against Arsenal on Sunday, and his absence gives Mikel Arteta’s side at least a flicker of encouragement before a match that could have a significant impact on the Premier League table.

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