Manchester City received reassuring news on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, after scans confirmed that Rodri’s injury from Sunday’s 2-1 Premier League victory over Arsenal is not serious. The Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder limped off in the 88th minute clutching his groin, later described in some reports as involving the calf/soleus area.
Pep Guardiola initially expressed caution post-Arsenal, stating: “I don’t know how long Rodri will be out. [It’s the] groin I think the doctor said but we will see.” In Tuesday’s pre-Burnley press conference, he confirmed the 29-year-old will miss Wednesday’s trip to Turf Moor but left the door open for a quicker return. “I think for tomorrow he will not be ready. We’ll see for the next games the FA Cup semi-final against Southampton [Saturday] or 12 days later for Everton.”
Medical checks, as reported by Manchester Evening News journalist Paul Hirst and echoed across City accounts, confirmed no long-term damage. This is a relief after Rodri’s previous ACL and hamstring setbacks. Nico González, who impressed as his replacement against Arsenal, is expected to anchor the midfield against Burnley. Ruben Dias remains sidelined with an ankle issue.
Rodri has been pivotal since regaining fitness, dictating tempo and providing defensive stability as City chase Arsenal (three points behind with a game in hand). While his brief absence tests squad depth, the “not serious” verdict ensures no major disruption to the title run-in or cup ambitions.
City travel to Burnley aiming to maintain momentum, with cautious optimism that their midfield maestro returns soon. Fans can breathe easier knowing this is precautionary rather than a crisis.