This season, Rodri has adjusted his playing style to prioritize self-care amidst a demanding schedule. Star midfielder Pep Guardiola discussed with coaches during the summer the importance of more recovery time, despite Rodri playing extensively last season to help secure an unprecedented Treble. Rodri was concerned that such heavy playtime might shorten his career.
Rodri has appeared in fewer matches this season, with his absence from four games mainly due to suspension. Only Phil Foden and Kyle Walker have logged more minutes on the pitch than him at Manchester City.
Despite not starting in some FA Cup matches, City occasionally rests him, though it’s challenging to leave him out of the starting lineup due to his unmatched performance level.
He recently reached the 3,500-minute milestone in the FA Cup win over Newcastle. There’s a renewed focus this season on managing Rodri’s playing time to ensure adequate rest even during matches.
Rodri expressed his efforts to prioritize physical well-being, acknowledging the importance of rest beyond just sleep.
He emphasized the significance of conserving energy during matches, especially when leading by a considerable margin, to sustain himself throughout the season. He emphasized the need for mental and physical breaks to perform at his best.
