Rodri has made significant adjustments to his playing style this season in order to prioritize his well-being amidst a demanding schedule.
As a key midfielder for Pep Guardiola’s squad, Rodri was heavily involved in their successful campaign last year, contributing to their remarkable Treble triumph.
He expressed concerns over the toll that excessive playing time could take on his longevity in the sport. In the summer, he conveyed to the coaching staff his need for more rest to preserve his career for the long term.
This season, Rodri’s playing time has been more measured, partially due to a suspension that caused him to miss four games.
Despite this, he remains one of the top performers for Manchester City, with only Phil Foden and Kyle Walker logging more minutes on the pitch.
Notably, Rodri surpassed 3,500 minutes of play in the recent 2-0 FA Cup victory over Newcastle, potentially exceeding his previous season’s playing time.
Recognizing the importance of managing Rodri’s workload, Manchester City has occasionally provided him with rest days, particularly in matches where he did not start, such as the FA Cup fixtures against Huddersfield and Luton.
His indispensable role in the team means they are keen to utilize him whenever possible, as his level of performance is unmatched within the squad and perhaps even across other teams.
Rodri acknowledges that he has taken proactive steps to prioritize his physical well-being, engaging in discussions with the team to ensure he receives adequate rest.
This approach extends beyond simply easing off during matches; it involves strategic adjustments to his gameplay to ensure he can sustain his performance throughout the season.
In situations where Manchester City holds a comfortable lead, Rodri consciously conserves his energy rather than exerting himself unnecessarily.
This deliberate approach allows him to preserve his physical and mental freshness, enabling him to maintain peak performance levels until the end of the season.
Overall, Rodri’s focus this season has been on striking a balance between exertion and rest, with the ultimate goal of ensuring his longevity in the sport.
By prioritizing his well-being and making subtle adjustments to his playing style, he aims to maximize his contribution to the team while safeguarding his physical health for the future.
