No Rodri, Big Problems
Rodri, the backbone of Manchester City’s midfield, controls the game with precision and stability. With him being injured, the team has struggled to maintain their dominance, suffering unexpected losses and disjointed performances. His absence has exposed vulnerabilities in both defense and attack. Normally, no single player defines a team, but Rodri’s absence proves he might just be the exception.
Rodri operates as the leader of Manchester City’s midfield, excelling as a defensive midfielder who balances the team’s attacking with discipline. His primary responsibilities include recovering the ball, shielding the backline, and controlling the game’s tempo through precise passing. Known for his composure under pressure and exceptional positioning, Rodri ensures City's high-pressing system runs seamlessly. In the 2022-23 Premier League season, Rodri completed 2,977 passes, ranking second among all players, and maintained a passing accuracy of approximately 91–92%. He also averaged 1.86 tackles per match and recorded the most interceptions among midfielders. He has won countless awards and trophies, but one stands above the rest: winning the 2024 Ballon d'Or, becoming the first Manchester City player to claim the honor. Reflecting on his achievement, Rodri humbly stated, "I try to be a leader and try to improve every day from the best."
Through their last eight games, Manchester City have recorded six losses, one draw, and just one win. This is shocking as City are the reigning champions of the Premier League. Rodri’s injury has been a major factor in this slump, as his absence has left a void in midfield that City have struggled to fill. Without him, the team has lacked control, defensive stability, and the ability to dictate the tempo of games. Phil Foden has completely lost form and the spark that once made him a standout performer. Jack Grealish has gone a year without a goal and desperately needs to find his rhythm once again. Erling Haaland, who began the season in stunning form, has seen his goal output drop as the service to him from midfield has diminished. İlkay Gündoğan has stepped up, however, having a pass completion rate of 92.54% while averaging approximately 66.91 passes per game, but even his efforts haven’t been enough to steady the ship.
The recent 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa on December 21st further highlighted the tactical challenges caused by Rodri’s absence. Pep Guardiola has attempted to adjust the lineup to compensate, but the solutions have been less than effective. City’s midfield has lacked the cohesion and control needed to dominate games, leaving their defense exposed to counterattacks. Substitutes have failed to replicate Rodri’s irreplaceable ability to recover possession and dictate the tempo, exposing just how critical he is to Guardiola’s system.
With Rodri’s return on the rise, Man City will try to hold on. Rodri brings experience, confidence, and the stability needed to anchor their midfield. His presence could reignite the team’s rhythm, providing the spark they’ve been missing. All eyes are now on his comeback to save their season.
