Few players improve a team so obviously as the Spanish midfielder — losing him could be one fine margin too far for Manchester City

Manchester City may have entered the season as the favorites to win a fifth successive Premier League title, but the calculus on their chances to extend their winning streak shifts considerably now that Rodri is expected to miss much of the campaign with an knee injury.

Rodri limped off just 16 minutes into the epic 2-2 draw against title rivals Arsenal last Sunday after jarring his right knee whilst battling Thomas Partey. The Ballon d’Or frontrunner fought back tears as he was helped off the pitch and while City are yet to offer an update on the 28-year-old, the signs do not look good.