Manchester City seems to have started the 2024/25 campaign by keeping the wrong foot. Injuries have marred the whole plan of the Sky Blues right from the beginning of the season, with each week bringing a major setback. Now ahead of their EFL Cup Third Round clash against Watford, concerns remain over the availability of both Kevin De Bruyne and Rodri.

Addressing the Belgium maestro first, De Bruyne showcased initial signs of worry during the opening fixture of the UEFA Champions League against Inter Milan last Thursday. While the 31-year-old started the game, he was eventually subbed off during halftime for Ilkay Gundogan after picking up a knock just before the referee whistled for the first half.

Initially, it wasn’t touted as a concern in the post-match presser of the UCL clash until Pep Guardiola announced the absence of the former Wolfsburg man from the Arsenal clash. It was also revealed that De Bryune was out to face the Gunners as he was nursing his groin injury. Given that days have passed since he played, one shall expect him to play the EFL Cup opener against Watford. However, that may not be the case after all.

Considering the match is against a second-tier side, Pep Guardiola surely wouldn’t be interested in risking Kevin De Bryune. The former Barcelona manager will surely give the Belgian international much-needed rest so that he is able to return for Saturday’s Premier League away clash against Newcastle United. Not to mention that three days later they will again travel to Slovakia for their Matchday 2 against ŠK Slovan Bratislava.

With the schedule being quite tight, Guardiola will instead give a chance to his reserve squad against Watford. Besides Kevin De Bruyne, Oscar Bobb and Nathan Ake are also ruled out for the clash, who continue to nurse their respective injuries. Also, how could we forget Rodri? Speaking of which, there are some concerning updates regarding the Spaniard.

While Kevin De Bruyne takes precaution, Rodri leaves Manchester City for Barcelona

According to various reports, Rodri is expected to be sidelined for an extended period of around 9 months. The injury sustained by the former Atletico Madrid player proved to be far more serious than initially thought, likely ruling him out for most of the 2024/25 season. While a return before the end of the season would be miraculous, it’s more probable that fans won’t see him back in action until next year.

Following confirmation of the severity of Rodri’s injury from initial tests, Manchester City’s medical team decided to conduct a more detailed evaluation. As a result, the club sent their star midfielder to Barcelona for further examination of his right knee by Dr. Cugat. While a consultation with Dr. Cugat may provide some hope for a quicker recovery, City must brace themselves for a worst-case scenario.

In addition to missing domestic competitions, Rodri is also set to miss all international fixtures with Spain, including the UEFA Nations League, until the summer. Nevertheless, it remains to be seen how Man City is able to navigate through these challenges.