Rodri’s loss is a massive blow for Manchester City but it isn’t curtains for their season

Pep Guardiola today confirmed the news that everyone associated with Manchester City had feared. Rodri will miss the rest of the season with a knee injury. It is a savage blow for the world champions and their midfield general. But Rodri’s loss isn’t curtains for City’s season. Instead, it is an opportunity for other players to step up in his absence. Someone else now has the chance to make an impact in a crucial role for Pep Guardiola’s side.

Rodri’s loss is a huge blow for Manchester City. No one is disputing that fact. The mood amongst City fans upon receiving the news of the severity of Rodri’s injury is one of disappointment. That is understandable given how important Rodri is to the world champions. But with every dark cloud, there is a silver lining. The loss of Rodri provides somebody else the opportunity to step up. That’s an exciting prospect to ponder going forward.

Rodri’s loss could pave the way for Rico Lewis to make a move into midfield. He has always appeared destined to make a career as a midfielder. Lewis has shown during his young career that he has the intelligence and technical ability to be a full-time midfielder. Perhaps Nico O’Reilly will show he’s ready for a more consistent role in Pep Guardiola’s squad.

There are also proven performers in Ilkay Gundogan, Bernardo Silva and John Stones who could fill the void left by Rodri’s absence. Time and time again those three have stepped up when Manchester City have needed them the most. Now is another time when City need them to perform more than ever.

Mateo Kovacic and Matheus Nunes are another pair of players who could fill the void left by Rodri. Kovacic has already shown this season that he is capable of playing Rodri’s role. Matheus Nunes has been screaming for an opportunity to show what he can do at Manchester City. Perhaps Rodri’s loss, while unfortunate, will give the Portuguese international the opportunity to shine.

Rodri’s loss is a blow for Manchester City. That fact isn’t in question. But with the Spanish international sidelined for the remainder of the season it does give other players the opportunity to step up in his absence. If one or all of them can the Manchester City squad may be better placed going forward than it was before Rodri went down with a severe knee injury.