The influential Spain international was injured in the champions' 2-2 draw with Arsenal in the Premier League at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.

There had been reports claiming he could miss the rest of the reason but, while the problem is clearly serious, Guardiola remains hopeful it does not prove that bad.

Manchester City midfielder Rodri after suffering a knee injury against Arsenal

Man City midfielder Rodri was forced off in the first half of Sunday's 2-2 draw with Arsenal

The City manager said: "Still, we don't have the definitive. He'll be out for a long time, a while, but there is some opinions that maybe it will be less than we expect.

Guardiola: Rodri needs surgery and 'out for long, long time'

Man City latest: City must preserve energy in pursuit of success, says Pep

"Unfortunately he was injured. Right now, still, I cannot tell you [how long] because we're waiting the last phone calls from him and the doctors to know exactly what, definitely, he has and the type of surgery that he has to get."