Rodri has made adjustments to his playing style this season in order to prioritize his well-being amidst a demanding schedule.
Last season, Pep Guardiola’s midfield prodigy played more matches than any of his teammates, contributing significantly to their remarkable Treble victory. However, he expressed concerns to his coaches about the importance of taking breaks during the summer to recharge. Rodri feared that overexerting himself could shorten his career prematurely.
This season, Rodri has played fewer games, partly due to a four-game suspension. Despite this, he remains one of Manchester City’s most utilized players, with only Phil Foden and Kyle Walker logging more minutes.
Achieving the milestone of surpassing 3,500 minutes in the FA Cup victory over Newcastle, he may still exceed his playing time from the previous year.
Although Rodri occasionally receives rest, as seen in his absence from starting lineups in FA Cup matches against Huddersfield and Luton, there is hesitancy to bench him due to his unmatched performance level.
Consequently, there has been a renewed focus this season on finding ways for Rodri to relax during games, even while actively participating.
Reflecting on his approach, Rodri mentioned, “To be honest, I’ve tried to prioritize my physical well-being more. I’ve discussed this with the team, and I believe I’ve incorporated more rest into my routine. It’s not just about resting; it’s about managing how you exert yourself.”
He elaborated further, “In matches where we’re leading by a considerable margin, I’ve learned to conserve energy and sustain my body for the long haul of the season. It’s been a continuous process throughout the year. Taking these breaks allows me to recharge both physically and emotionally, ensuring I can perform at my best until the end of the season.”