Man City dealt new injury worry in Arsenal win as Pep Guardiola forced into late substitution

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·19. April 2026

Man City dealt new injury worry in Arsenal win as Pep Guardiola forced into late substitution

The sole negative from Man City’s huge win over Arsenal

Rodri kept his place in the Man City starting line-up on Sunday as Pep Guardiola opted to stick with the same team that beat Chelsea 3-0 at Stamford Bridge last weekend.

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However, the Spaniard was not able to play the full 90 minutes as City recorded a 2-1 win at the Etihad Stadium to close the gap on Arsenal to three points at the top of the Premier League table.

Rodri pulled up towards the end of the game with an apparent groin issue and immediately asked to be taken off after receiving treatment from the Man City medical staff.

Speaking after the game, Guardiola delivered an update on the central midfielder who is now a doubt for City’s match against Burnley on Wednesday night where they can leapfrog the Gunners.

Guardiola said: "We are alive, we are there, everybody is pushing and now everybody will make a contribution when we play every three days.

“I don't know how long Rodri will be out. The doctors will make checks later tonight or in the morning."

Rodri and Pep Guardiola after Man City’s win over Arsenal

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Rayan Cherki and Erling Haaland were on target in either half to seal victory for Man City, though Guardiola singled out Nico O’Reilly for special praise after he claimed an assist for the winning goal.

"Incredible defensive, offensively and set pieces,” the City boss told reporters. “What a player he is becoming. Playing different positions. He is exceptional.

“He had the composure today to take the ball and again arrive in the final third for the second goal.

"What a season! I don't know if he is the best player or the man of the season but the young one? Guys, it has to be."