At the end of last season, there was little doubt that Rodri was the best defensive midfielder in world football. Now as the new season has begun, are we witnessing an evolution of the City midfield lynchpin’s game?
The Spanish international has started this season as a man-possessed. He is now venturing further forward with the addition of Mateo Kovacic to the City midfield. The pair have struck up a partnership in the centre of midfield. Having the Croatian alongside Rodri has allowed City’s key man to join the attack more often. His return this far this season of two goals and two assists appears to show Rodri’s game is evolving.
Rodri’s latest clutch performance helped @ManCity‘s 100% record remain intact 🔝#PL | @Oracle pic.twitter.com/FwWYDlLifb
— Premier League (@premierleague) August 29, 2023
The midfielder of course would always chime in with important goals playing from deep. His goal to clinch the club’s UEFA Champions League title is the stuff of legend. His knack for a vital goal is well known. It does now appear that he is featuring more prominently in the treble winner’s attack.
Rodrigo to the rescue! 💥 pic.twitter.com/6TAq2NXzNj
— Manchester City (@ManCity) August 27, 2023
With the loss of Ilkay Gundogan to Barcelona and Kevin De Bruyne’s long-term injury, Pep Guardiola’s squad need to replace the goals and assists each provided. It appears that Rodri may be a part of the solution to fill the void left by two key players.
If Rodri’s game does evolve, it would be a frightening prospect for the European champions rivals. He is already regarded as the world’s best defensive midfielder. If he continues his start to the season and evolves further, there will be no doubt of his status as the most dominant midfielder in football.
