As Rodri started at centre-back alongside Aymeric Laporte for Spain in their 7-0 thrashing of Costa Rica in the World Cup, his stats show how brilliantly he performed in a makeshift role.
Admittedly, Luis Enrique’s side were far and away the better team on the day, as the Manchester City lynchpin did not have a ton of defending to do.
Rodri shines as a centre-back for Spain
However, a look at the 25-year-old’s numbers via City Xtra showcase how he still managed to stand out amidst the attacking masterclass put forth by La Roja.
The two-time Premier League champion was excellent, whenever called upon for his nation, whether that be in the air or in terms of winning his ground duels.
However, it was on the ball where Rodri once again showcased why he is the very definition of a metronome.
The ex-Atletico Madrid man’s passing from deeper areas was phenomenal all night, especially as he managed to slip in a ball for Sergio Busquets time and again.
For Marco Asensio’s strike, it was the Sky Blues midfielder, compared to Sergio Busquets by Paco Lopez (Sky Sports) who played the veteran through to kickstartOpinion: 25-year-old compared to Busquets’ stats show he shone as a centre-back for Spain tonight the build-up for a stunningly well-worked goal from Spain.
137 accurate passes out of 144 touches, at a passing accuracy of 97.9 %, whilst playing 3 accurate long balls just sum up how fabulous Rodri was in possession as a defender.
Can Rodri play at centre-back for City?
The short answer is yes, seeing how he remains a superb defender and his passing is top-drawer.
But against some of the most frightening attacks in the Premier League, it would just be ideal if Rodri performed in his usual No.6 role.
However, as an emergency option, he can certainly do a job, as exemplified by his magnificent display against Fulham when City had 10 men.
Or, Rodri’s zen-like showing, as the stats and his performance for Spain against Costa Rica suggested on Wednesday.
