Manchester City No.16 Rodri has now admitted that he never imagined becoming as talented as he currently is.
The Spain international made the comment when speaking to COPE.
So, what did Rodri say? Let’s take a look…
What’s the story?
Well, the 27-year-old is arguably the best midfielder on the planet nowadays.
However, even Rodri himself didn’t believe he could reach this level, and credits Pep Guardiola for helping him see football in a new way.
The Spaniard said: “He’s the most influential coach of my career. He’s elevated me to a level I didn’t know I could reach. When you get used to him, I say, why don’t others do this? I see everything much easier. He gives you a toolbox and you have more tools than the rest.”
Rodri arrived at Manchester City in a £62.8m deal from Atlético Madrid in July 2019 – at a time where he was certainly talented, but by no means the best around.
However – in just four years – Guardiola has taken his fellow countryman to another level.
Rodri now makes everything look simple. He can ping a ball across the pitch with ease, pops up with huge goals, and also offers defensive assurance in midfield that nobody else seems to be able to replicate.
The fact Manchester City lost all three games without the Madrid-born maestro following his red card against Nottingham Forest speaks volumes about his importance.
Rodri situation seems to have made up Guardiola’s mind at Manchester City
The situation with Rodri’s suspension appears to have put the writing on the wall for Kalvin Phillips.
Guardiola notably left the England international out of both Premier League games in which Rodri was banned for, opting for Mateo Kovacic in the 2-1 loss to Wolves and then Rico Lewis for the 1-0 defeat to Arsenal.
That suggests the Spaniard has a lack of trust in Phillips – who the Northern Echo believe is a primary target for Newcastle in January.
The 27-year-old also admitted that he wants minutes after England’s 3-1 win over Italy on Tuesday night, so his time at Manchester City may now be drawing to a close.
