John Stones rang the Spaniard up on Sunday after the Newcastle game before the team then trained and flew to Bratislava for their Champions League campaign. Unfortunately, Rodri will not be with the group after suffering a tear of his anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee, with surgery putting him out for the season. This injury marks an enormous blow for Pep Guardiola and City as they strive for success. It also represents a major disappointment for a footballer who has worked his way to the top of his profession and was pushing to win the Ballon d’Or.
The Blues will have to adjust to life without Rodri, and Rodri will have to accept that he won’t be able to play football for the best part of a year. City understands how important the 28-year-old is for them but cannot afford to feel sorry for themselves.
John Stones expressed his sympathy and optimism.
John Stones said “I’m glad to hear him in good spirits. He’s with his family, taking time to relax and recover as best he can. It’s sad because the standard that he’s set over the past few seasons has been incredible.”
Despite the setback, there is confidence within the squad about managing the situation:
John Stones said “(But we’ve) a lot of quality and a lot of players that are more than capable of filling in in that position.”
