Rodri is certainly one of the world’s best central midfielders. He has been the key to Manchester City’s dominance. His ability on the ball and intelligence to read play have rightfully earned him a place in an already deep roster. His recent absence from games due to injury is highly questionable. Will the rest of the team be able to keep playing at the same high level in his absence?
Rodri’s influence on Manchester City’s performances can be spotted with some more stark statistics. In his 48 league matches without him on the field, the team has experienced 14 losses. In sharp comparison, they have lost just eight times in 111 games that he appeared in. This disparity underscores his significance in the midfield, where his presence often provides the stability and structure needed for Manchester City’s style of play.
Yet this season, Rodri has faced some instructed obstacles. He’s made only four starts and played only 293 minutes total—under 50% of the available minutes for the team. As might be expected, Manchester City has experienced a decrease in their quality of play after the transfer window closed. When Rodri plays, they’re 2.4 ppg true. Without him, that plummets to 1.8 points, underscoring how vital he is to their success.
His long-term absence has forced manager Pep Guardiola to change the tactical setup. Guardiola was clear of Rodri’s power on the pitch amid the ongoing strain on availability. He acknowledged that Rodri may be irreplaceable, but doesn’t make sense to think he can play his best on every match day. He expressed this sentiment clearly:
“I know Rodri is irreplaceable in many things, but he cannot play every three days. And when Nico Gonzalez came on, we concede less transitions. Rodri cannot sustain the rhythm for games and games, 90, 90.” – Pep Guardiola
Rodri’s best skill today, probably, is passing, ball distribution. His skills are the linchpin to the chaotic movement that has characterized Manchester City’s back-to-back title-winning efforts. His ability to control the game’s tempo and his defensive contributions are unmatched within the squad, making it challenging for Guardiola to find a direct replacement.
Now, as we head deeper into the season, Rodri has been candid about the physical and mental drain that playing every few days can have on his body. He remarked,
“I am not Messi, I’m not going to come back and make the team win every week.” – Rodri
This pledge reflects that he knows what it’s like to be put in the hot seat as a centerpiece. It recognizes the bounds of corporeal stamina.
The decline in Rodri’s availability has necessitated changes in Manchester City’s style of play. Without their stalwart midfielder, the team has found it hard to recreate their match-winning, match-controlling play. The change in fortunes has been evident not only on the field but in their performance metrics as well.
Rodri’s midfield partnership with fellow Ballon D’Or winner Aitana Bonmati proves his elite status within the sport. Both players have proven themselves to be stars and team leaders for their pro teams, both of whom have had great success this past season. Bonmati remains a magnetic presence on the pitch. At the same time, Rodri’s return to form is welcome for Manchester City, as they continue to chase both domestic and European glory.
If Rodri makes a timely return, the Spaniard could help put the pep back in Manchester City’s title-winning stride. His recent injury lay-off has dampened his impact. As he gets back up to speed, expect him to retake his crucial role in Guardiola’s system.
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