Injured Rodri and other reasons for Blues' poor run

THE absence of Rodri is once again in the spotlight as City's losing run extends to four games, the worst of Pep Guardiola's managerial career.

- TOM WHITE

Here, M.E.N. Sport agency looks at the possible factors in their slump.

MISSING RODRI Guardiola's key midfielder was forced off in the first half against Arsenal on September 22 and was subsequently ruled out for the season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament.

Since then, and including that game, City have won six out of 12 – drawing with the Gunners and Newcastle and now suffering their run of defeats – which is in line with their long-term record without the Spanish star.

In Premier League fixtures since his arrival at the club in 2019, City's win rate falls from 74 per cent with him in the team to 59pc without and their points per game from 2.37 to 1.85.