'We have to' - Pep Guardiola provides Rodri injury update as Liverpool could land major title race boost

Liverpool fans would have been delighted that Manchester City and Arsenal had to share the spoils in their Premier League showdown.

A 2-2 stalemate at the Etihad Stadium meant that City, chasing a fifth successive title, slipped up for the first time this season. Yet they needed a 98th-minute equaliser against 10-man Arsenal to avoid defeat. In a rollercoaster encounter, Erling Haaland had given the home side the lead but the Gunners, who have finished runners-up in the previous two seasons, stunned City through goals from Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel.

And while the Gunners had Leandro Trossard dismissed moments before half-time for a second yellow card, Pep Guardiola’s men struggled to break down the visitors with the numerical advantage. But at the very death, substitute John Stones netted from a goalmouth scrambles to ensure the game ended honours even.

It leaves Liverpool, who defeated Bournemouth 3-0, a point adrift of City and one ahead of Arsenal. It is early days in the season, but it appears the Reds could be bang in the mix to challenge in Arne Slot’s first campaign.

And if City lose Rodri for a prolonged period, that will be a hammer blow. The Spain international is very much regarded as the best holding midfielder in the world and has been nominated for the Ballon d’Or. But Rodri was forced off in the 21st minute against Arsenal with a knee issue, having appeared to be in pain. Now City are sweating on 28-year-old’s fitness with Guardiola unsure about the extent of Rodri’s setback.

"I don't know, I didn't speak to the doctor," Etihad boss Guardiola said. "[But] Rodri is strong. He leaves the pitch in this action because he felt something, otherwise Rodri stays there. He is the best defensive midfielder in the world, a potential Ballon d’Or winner. It would be so great if he does win it.

“But we have to deal with it. We don’t know how long he is out. But we have to deal with it.”