Rodri has admitted that Manchester City did not defend well enough during their 1-1 draw against Chelsea.
Pep Guardiola’s men conceded first to Mauricio Pochettino’s side, courtesy of a Raheem Sterling strike in the 42nd minute.
However, the goal typified City’s defensive performance for much of the first half as well as in the second half, albeit to a lesser extent.
Rodri admits “scared” Manchester City did not defend well enough against Chelsea
Much like in the 4-4 draw between both sides in November, Chelsea managed to find joy against Manchester City on the counter-attack during Saturday’s encounter.
It seemed like one or two passes were enough for the visitors to breach City’s defence at the Etihad Stadium, as they seemed the likelier team to score despite having less possession for the majority of the contest.
After Manchester City were held to a draw against Chelsea, Rodri claimed that his side did not defend to the standard they must.
“I think we weren’t great in the first half”, he told Sky Sports.
“We conceded another easy goal. I think we have to defend better. They almost created nothing in the first half.”
“We knew about their counter-attacks and fast players, we have to defend the counter-attack better. From there, it’s always more difficult to come back.”
“It’s a matter of defending better. We tried in the second half. We wanted the ball and wanted to take risks. We were a bit scared of the counter-attack. You have to be brave.”
Rodri is spot on
In our view, Manchester City midfielder Rodri hit the nail on the head during his post-match assessment after the hosts’ draw against Chelsea.
City have managed to keep just three clean sheets in their last 15 Premier League matches. Liverpool and Arsenal, on the other hand, have managed to keep six clean sheets during the same period.
Ultimately, the Reds and the Gunners’ superior defences could play a massive part in which teams win the Premier League title this season.
After keeping Everton at bay last Saturday, City have reverted to leaking goals once again in their latest showing against Chelsea.
Rodri has every right to be disappointed as Manchester City are not making matters easier for themselves at the back this campaign and unless they do, they might be at a disadvantage in the title race.
