"Another level. If Rodri came on for the last 20 minutes against Fulham, put right in the middle, do you know the effect? Just his presence, not even touching the ball? The other 10 players feel safe, better. They play better even if he doesn't touch the ball. Just the fact that he is there. And for one year and a half we didn't have it."
"Rodri is another level of player, We want him, There are irreplaceable players, not just for how good they play, it's what they do for the other ones. The others say, 'oh I have Rodri there' and they give him the ball and know he won't lose [it]. He knows when the space is free, to switch play, he's unique."
Manchester City’s defensive problems are partly attributed to the absence of midfielder Rodri, who has played one minute in two months after a hamstring injury on Oct. 5. Rodri previously suffered a knee ligament injury more than a year ago and is set to miss upcoming matches against Sunderland and Real Madrid. City conceded 10 goals in their last four matches and have conceded 16 goals, more than any other top-six team, despite scoring 32 goals. Rodri’s presence is described as stabilizing teammates and improving defensive control and ball retention.
Read at ESPN.com
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