Pep Guardiola expressed his belief that Manchester City is facing defensive challenges due in part to the absence of “irreplaceable” Rodri. He indicated that the midfielder is likely to be sidelined for several more weeks.
Rodri has managed to play only one minute in the past two months, following a hamstring injury sustained during the victory against Brentford on October 5.
The Spanish international, who suffered a knee ligament injury over a year ago, will miss Sunderland‘s visit to the Etihad Stadium on Saturday, as well as the upcoming Champions League clash against Real Madrid next Wednesday.
Guardiola is eager to have the 29-year-old back and noted the chaotic nature of Tuesday’s 5-4 win over Fulham, where City, leading 5-1, allowed Fulham to claw back into the match, highlighting the team’s need for the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner.
“Rodri is on another level,” Guardiola remarked.
“If Rodri had come on for the last 20 minutes against Fulham, positioned right in the middle, the impact would have been significant. Just his presence, without even touching the ball, reassures the other players and elevates their performance. This is something we’ve lacked for a year and a half.”
City has conceded 10 goals in their last four matches against Fulham, Leeds, Bayer Leverkusen, and Newcastle.
Although they lead the Premier League in goals scored with 32, they have conceded 16, which is the highest among the top six teams, including this weekend’s opponents Sunderland.
“We need him back,” Guardiola asserted.
“There are players who are irreplaceable, not just because of their skills, but for what they bring to their teammates. The others feel reassured knowing Rodri is there, and they trust him with the ball, knowing he won’t lose possession. He has an exceptional ability to read the game and switch play.”
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City’s December schedule is packed with six matches across three competitions before the new year.
However, Guardiola has advised Rodri to think long-term, especially with the upcoming World Cup, where Spain aims to be among the favorites after winning the Euro 2024 championship.
“I am desperate for him to return,” said the City manager.
“In Madrid and for the next match, but he shouldn’t rush back into action for another six weeks. It wouldn’t make sense. I want to ensure his complete recovery.”
“He has started participating in some training sessions on the pitch. Hopefully, he can resume full training in a few weeks. Once he returns, he’ll need to undergo a mini pre-season; he can’t jump back into playing 90-minute games right away. Recovering from an ACL injury means his body will take time to adapt.
“The World Cup is ahead. We need to focus on his long-term health, not just for now but for the season’s end and beyond.”