Manchester City fans slammed Rodri as he made his first start in 343 days, as Pep Guardiola’s team lost 2-1 to Brighton & Hove Albion. Last season, the Cityzens lost the Premier League crown to Liverpool, and many cited the Spaniard’s ACL injury as the primary reason their pursuit for a historic five-peat failed.
It’s no secret that without Rodri in midfield, City look like a shadow of themselves. His absence was bound to be felt, given he is widely considered as the Premier League’s top midfielder. However, after nearly a year on the sidelines, there were legitimate questions regarding the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner’s ability to return to his dominant form.
Guardiola placed him with Tijjani Reijnders in the center, with Omar Marmoush just ahead for a new look in City’s engine room. Nonetheless, even in the face of defeat, Rodri demonstrated that class, as the adage goes, is permanent.
Man City fans give their verdict on Rodri after the first Premier League start in 343 days.
During his 90-minute cameo on Sunday afternoon, Rodri had an 89 percent passing accuracy, generated one important chance, won three of his five ground duels, had a perfect aerial duel success rate, completed eight of his ten long ball attempts, and contributed an interception. By the final whistle, City fans had little question that the 29-year-old was going about his job.
“The difference in how we play and how we defend with Rodri on the pitch is night and day than without him,” according to one user on X. “It’s sad that nobody can replace him.” Meanwhile, a second added: “Rodri is still the best midfielder in the world. Period,” as a third wrote.
“Rodri is really worth two players. I’m not sure how you can come back from your first start and look so good.”
A fourth X user wrote, “Rodri has been INCREDIBLE.” Meanwhile, a fifth concluded: “Rodri is showing no signs of having just returned from injury.” “What a ridiculous player.”
With Rodri back at the base of midfield, City will undoubtedly be in better form to reestablish themselves as title challengers. Following the international break, their credentials will be tested immediately as they host Manchester United in the Manchester derby at the Eithad Stadium, followed by a Champions League match against Italian champions Napoli.
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