'The Ballon d'Or game + Manchester City's fate will all change' The strongest midfielder Rodri's cruciate ligament rupture season out, Guardiola's agony grew
Sep 24, 2024
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The British edition of ESPN, a global sports media outlet, said on the 24th (Korea time) 'Lodri's injury made it more difficult for Manchester City to achieve its task. Rodri reported that he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, which confirmed him to be out for the season.
It is an event that can shake the game of the EPL early in the 2024-2025 season. Manchester City was still cruising to the '5th consecutive EPL championship' this season with an unbeaten record (4 wins and 1 draw) until the first 5 rounds. Rodri is the one who energized the team at the center.
However, Rodri was ruled out for the season after five games. The anterior cruciate ligament is completely ruptured and will undergo surgery in Barcelona. Man City should play the remaining 33 games without Rodri. Pep Guardiola, who has been relying on Rodri by giving him great trust, faces a big ordeal. Manchester City's tactics without Rodri will need to be renewed. This is because there are not enough players to replace Rodri.
Rodri started against rival Arsenal at Etihad Stadium in Manchester, his home stadium, early on the 23rd and was injured in the 20th minute of the first half. Manchester City's corner was knocked down as they battled for a place with Arsenal Thomas Partey. In the process, the knee appears to have been twisted.
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It's a bolt out of the blue for Guardiola. He regarded Rodri as an alter ego. Even back in February "Lodry is incredible. He is the best midfielder in the world. to be able to do everything," he said, expressing a strong sense of trust. It's the heart of Man City tactics. He has played a role as a starting point for offense while coordinating defense in the midfield.
At the same time, it could have an impact on the Ballon d'Or. Rodri has been selected as a leading candidate for the Ballon d'Or along with Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid). However, if he is no longer able to play this season, his chances of winning the prize could be greatly reduced.
wman@sportschosun.com
