Rodri is going to be out for the remainder of the season due to his ACL injury. Rodri is an important piece to Pep Guardiola’s game plan. His long absence will affect the team’s performance but I don’t think it will affect Manchester City title race this season. Manchester City have the money and will buy replacement in January. I believe Pep is playing mind games with his recent comments.
I don't think Pet is playing mind games. Losing Rodri is a big loss for Man City's squad. Rodri is a player who no one can replace directly. Rodri's absence will create a huge gap in midfield, affecting Man City's ability to control the game and the solidity of the defense. Coach Pep Guardiola faces a difficult problem when finding a replacement. With his contributions, Man City has no similar player. Man City will have to find a way to adjust and other players can come together to replace Rodri.
The likes of John Stones, Mateo Kovacic, and Ilkay Gundogan are potential replacements from the current squad. Of course, Guardiola has not ruled out the possibility of Man City signing a new midfielder in January.