Rodri: The Underrated Superstar in Manchester City’s Midfield
Pep Guardiola, the esteemed manager of Manchester City, has made a bold statement about one of his star players. According to Guardiola, Rodri is not just the best holding midfielder in the world but the best midfielder overall. This praise comes as no surprise to fans who have witnessed Rodri’s exceptional performances since joining the club from Atletico Madrid in 2019.
Rodri, a 27-year-old Spanish international, has quickly become an indispensable part of Manchester City’s lineup. With 237 appearances under his belt and consistently playing over 50 games in each completed season, his reliability is unmatched. Although he may not grab the headlines like some of his more flashy teammates, his importance to the team is evident in the fact that Manchester City has not lost a game in over a year when Rodri has played.
Guardiola is effusive in his praise for Rodri, highlighting his versatility and impact on the pitch. While holding midfielders often go unnoticed, Guardiola believes that this lack of appreciation is a testament to their effectiveness. Rodri’s role goes beyond providing an anchor in the center of the pitch; he is a key player in driving Manchester City’s attacking play and making the team tick.
One of the standout qualities of Rodri’s game is his ability to score goals when it matters most. Guardiola commends him for his knack for finding the back of the net in crucial moments. Rodri’s goal-scoring prowess was evident in the 2021-22 season when he scored seven times in all competitions. This season, he is on track to surpass that tally with six goals already to his name, including a crucial late equalizer against Chelsea.
Rodri’s impact on Manchester City’s success cannot be overstated. Guardiola himself admits that it is difficult to comprehend how the team could have achieved what they have in recent years without him. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively sets him apart from his peers. He truly is the complete midfielder.
As fans and pundits alike continue to sing his praises, it is clear that Rodri’s star is on the rise. While he may not receive the same level of attention as strikers or number 10s, his contributions on the pitch speak for themselves. With Guardiola’s endorsement and his exceptional performances, Rodri is well on his way to solidifying his place as one of the world’s best midfielders.
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