Manchester City’s struggles highlight Rodri’s importance amid injury setbacks
Manchester City’s 2024-25 campaign ended without a trophy, a rare outcome under Pep Guardiola, and many of the issues behind that disappointment have been linked to repeated injury problems affecting key players—most notably midfield anchor Rodri. The Spain international, widely regarded as one of the most influential players in world football after winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or, spent large portions of the season unavailable, leaving a noticeable gap in City’s structure.
Rodri’s long-term knee injury earlier in the campaign was the biggest blow. That setback ruled him out for several months and disrupted City’s rhythm during a crucial stage of the season. Without him, Guardiola’s side struggled to maintain their usual control in midfield, eventually finishing the season empty-handed for the first time in eight years.
Although Rodri has returned to action and has made 35 appearances across club and international football this season, his availability has remained inconsistent. He has also dealt with additional fitness issues, including hamstring and groin problems, which have forced him back onto the sidelines at different points.
Guardiola cautious over Rodri’s return
Pep Guardiola confirmed that Rodri had resumed partial training, but emphasized that his condition is still being carefully monitored. His availability for the upcoming match against Brentford remains uncertain, with a final decision expected closer to matchday.
Guardiola acknowledged the midfielder’s importance but also stressed that City have had to adapt in his absence for extended periods.
He pointed out that the team has already survived months without him and suggested that the club would not rush his return until he is fully ready. The manager’s focus is now on ensuring Rodri is fit for the remaining key fixtures, including the FA Cup final against Chelsea and the final stretch of league games against top opposition.
Impact of Rodri’s absence during key matches
Rodri’s influence has been particularly missed in recent high-pressure fixtures. Earlier in the season, he played a key role in City’s Carabao Cup final victory over Arsenal and was instrumental in their 2-1 Premier League win against the same opponents, a result that briefly strengthened their title challenge.
However, he later picked up a groin injury during that match, forcing him out of several important games. City managed narrow wins over Burnley and Southampton in his absence, but their control in midfield looked less secure.
The most significant example came in the dramatic 3-3 draw against Everton. City led the game but conceded three goals in a chaotic 13-minute spell in the second half. The midfield failed to provide stability, allowing Everton to repeatedly break through City’s defensive shape. Although Jeremy Doku’s late equaliser rescued a point, the result felt like a missed opportunity in the title race.
Despite this, Guardiola rejected the idea that Rodri’s absence directly caused the dropped points, insisting that defensive mistakes were the main issue rather than a lack of midfield control.
Statistical importance of Rodri to Manchester City
Since joining Manchester City in 2019, Rodri has consistently been one of Guardiola’s most important players. Statistical analysis shows that City’s performance level improves significantly when he is in the team.
With Rodri on the pitch, City win more matches, concede fewer goals, and dominate possession more effectively compared to games where he is absent. His ability to control tempo, break up opposition attacks, and distribute the ball efficiently makes him central to Guardiola’s tactical system.
During City’s historic run of four consecutive Premier League titles, Rodri missed very few matches, and his absence during those rare occasions often coincided with less dominant performances.
One of the most significant examples came at the start of the 2024-25 season, when he suffered an ACL injury that kept him out for more than seven months. During that period, Liverpool went on to win the league, highlighting how influential his absence can be at the highest level.
Guardiola’s view on Rodri’s importance
Guardiola has previously described Rodri as the best midfielder in the world, praising his intelligence, physical strength, and ability to control matches. The manager sees him as the foundation of City’s midfield structure, responsible for balancing both defensive and attacking phases of play.
However, recent performances without him suggest that City are gradually learning how to cope in his absence. Of the 11 matches he missed earlier in the season, the team managed to win nine, showing that while his presence is valuable, the squad has developed enough depth to remain competitive.
Is Rodri’s impact being overstated?
Despite his reputation, some analysts believe Rodri’s absence may not be as damaging as commonly suggested. While he is undoubtedly a world-class player, Manchester City’s system and squad depth allow them to adapt even without him.
Since his debut, City’s overall metrics are clearly stronger when he plays, but recent results suggest that Guardiola’s side can still perform effectively without him in certain situations. The data shows that the team has managed to maintain a high win rate even during spells when he has been unavailable.
Nevertheless, his importance in big matches remains unquestioned. His presence brings balance, control, and stability that is difficult to replicate, especially in high-pressure fixtures where small details decide outcomes.
Looking ahead
With the season nearing its conclusion, City are hoping Rodri will be fully fit for the decisive fixtures that remain. His recovery is being managed carefully, with the priority being long-term fitness rather than short-term availability.
Guardiola will be eager to have him available for the FA Cup final and the final league games, where experience and composure in midfield could prove crucial in tight situations.
While City have shown they can function without him, there is no doubt that their strongest version includes Rodri at the heart of midfield. His return could be decisive in restoring balance and control as they look to finish the season strongly and rebuild after an unusual trophyless campaign.
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