Micah Richards has hailed Rodri after his performance for Manchester City against Burnley.
The Citizens got their campaign off to the perfect start on Friday night, beating Vincent Kompany’s Clarets 3-0 at Turf Moor.
City went ahead through Erling Haalnd, and the Norwegian then scored a brilliant second after good play from Julian Alvarez.
Burnley did not lie down and tried to play the brilliant football they did last season.
But City were just too strong.
Rodri then added a third for City in the second half – and the Spaniard came in for some high praise last night on Match of the Day from Micah Richarrds.
Micah Richards in awe of Rodri and makes claim about his Burnley display
On Match of the Day, City’s game with Burnley was briefly analysed at the end of the programme, since it had taken place on Friday night, with Saturday’s games taking priority.
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And Richards was on hand to deliver his verdict on Rodri.
Rodri’s performance really was amazing.
Not only was he crucial for City in denying Burnley from scoring on a couple of occasions.
He was also a real threat offensively in this game.
The 27-year-old didn’t just get a goal in the second-half. He also provided the brilliant header across goal for Haaland’s first.
Making a rather big claim about the Spaniard, Richards said: “In the box they (Burnley) sort of run out of ideas a little bit. They were on the front foot, but Man City have got Haaland, you give away chances… and Rodri – one of the best midfield performances I’ve seen in a Man City shirt. I just think the overall game was excellent to watch. But (there was a) gulf in class.”
A huge claim from Richards
This is a serious compliment from Richards.
City have enjoyed many fine midfielders over the years. And many magical midfield performances.
Fans have been treated to some truly special displays from those in the central areas of the pitch.
The display from Kevin De Bruyne against Wolves last season – when he scored four goals – springs to mind.
And the performance from David Silva against Manchester United in the famous 6-1 at Old Trafford was also very special.
So for Richards to say that about Rodri is a serious compliment, for a truly world-class player that Pep Guardiola just adores.