Manchester City midfielder Rodri has opened up about the toll the club’s relentless schedule is taking on him as they pursue another treble of major trophies.
“After City’s 3-3 draw with Real Madrid in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal, Rodri expressed his feelings, saying, “Every one of us can do better, even myself, but we need to rest to be honest. I do. I do need a rest.”
Rodri’s remarkable unbeaten streak spans over 66 games for club and country, a run that has lasted for more than a year.
Interestingly, City’s three losses in the league this season occurred while Rodri was suspended, against Wolves, Arsenal, and Aston Villa. Additionally, their Carabao Cup defeat to Newcastle in the third round also coincided with his absence.
“Let’s see … how we live the situation. Sometimes it is what it is,” Rodri commented, indicating the need for a rest.
A potential opportunity for respite could come in City’s upcoming Premier League fixture against Luton Town, where they trail Arsenal and Liverpool by one point in third place. The second leg against Real Madrid follows four days later, with City facing a packed schedule of two games per week for the remainder of the season.
Notably, Rodri was rested for City’s previous encounter with Luton Town in February, an FA Cup tie that saw Pep Guardiola’s side emerge victorious with a 6-2 win at Kenilworth Road.
As City navigates their demanding schedule, managing player fatigue becomes crucial for maintaining peak performance levels. Rodri’s admission highlights the challenges faced by players amidst the relentless demands of top-level football, emphasizing the importance of adequate rest and rotation to sustain success over the course of a grueling season.
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