Micah Richards Claims the Title Race Has Shifted to “50/50” Following Rodri’s ACL Injury

In the aftermath of a breathtaking early-season title decider, Micah Richards has weighed up Arsenal’s chances of Premier League success and claims it is shifting slowly out of Manchester City’s favour. 

Micah Richards Says Title Race is Now “50/50” After Rodri Injury

John Stones’ last-gasp equaliser to ensure a share of the spoils against Arsenal grabbed the headlines in the immediate aftermath on Sunday.

However, the anxious wait for a diagnosis on Rodri’s injury has since been the main talking point, with it now been confirmed that the Spaniard suffered a serious ACL.

Pep Guardiola has said he expects Rodri to be out for a “long, long time,” with the usual timeline for ACL injuries anywhere between six to nine months.

The importance of – perhaps – the finest midfielder in world football at this moment in time can not be understated. He has lost just one competitive match for club and country since March 2023, and City have a 33% loss rate in the 21 games he has missed since making the switch from Atletico Madrid.

Speaking on the Rest is Football podcast alongside co-host Gary Lineker, Micah Richards says the injury to Rodri has balanced the scales for the remainder of the season.

“Yes, I think it makes it [the title race] more balanced in terms of Arsenal’s chances of winning it.

“I don’t think it makes them favourites, but I think it’s 50/50 now.”

Gary Lineker concurred with Richards, saying he “wouldn’t disagree with that.”

Although the likes of Rico Lewis and John Stones have deputised to great effect in a holding role previously, reports suggest Manchester City may enter the January transfer window with their eyes fixed on a like-for-like replacement.

Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton has been sounded out as a likely candidate, while Real Sociedad’s fiercely loyal Martin Zubimendi is appreciated although a mid-season move appears unlikely.