Manchester City went down to a crushing 4-1 defeat to Sporting Lisbon last night. The loss at the Estádio José Alvalade was one of Manchester City’s worst for some time. But did the game last night expose just how much City misses Rodri? Or was it something more? The more you look at it it could be a bit of both and a host of other factors as well.
What has become apparent this season is that Pep Guardiola’s side has a susceptibility to quick counterattacks. They generally start when City lose possession in the final third or midfield. Teams have been able to get in behind Manchester City’s defence too quickly and easily. Sporting showed this last night in brutal fashion. Rodri has previously been a shield for City’s defence to prevent this from occurring.
The loss of Rodri has hurt Manchester City both in possession and defensively. His ability to score goals is well-documented. But he often dictates the tempo of games when Manchester City have possession. He is also a shield for City’s defence when they lose possession. So his loss does hurt the world champions and no one disputes that.
But if Rodri was available would it immediately fix Manchester City’s current issues? I don’t believe so. Currently, Pep Guardiola’s side looks out of whack. With the full-backs moved into midfield roles when City has possession it does leave acres of space for teams to exploit in behind. Teams defend deep and look to exploit that space. That susceptibility, coupled with an ageing City midfield does mean that Manchester City looks susceptible to quick breaks. It was apparent last night and has been during recent games for the world champions.
There is no doubt the loss of Rodri has hurt Manchester City. No one is disputing that fact. The loss of the Ballon d’Or winner for an entire season would hurt any team. City are no exception. But I don’t believe he would immediately fix every issue on the pitch Manchester City are facing. So often he has been City’s Mr Fix It but he won’t be this season. That job now falls onto his teammates.
It is only November so there is plenty of time for Pep Guardiola to steady the ship. Based on his and Manchester City’s recent history his team will find a way. Rodri’s loss is a blow, but it is also one of several factors currently contributing to Manchester City’s recent woes. But it’s too easy to say City’s current plight is solely down to the loss of Rodri. That overlooks a host of other factors currently at play.