“Only Comes Off the Pitch if City Are 3–0 Up” – Rodri Is Premier League’s ‘Most Important Player,’ Believes John Obi Mikel

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ByAdithya Narayanan

Dec 6, 2023 | 6:26 AM EST

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Manchester City are blessed with some incredible midfielders. While the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Bernardo Silva are rightly praised, Rodri doesn’t seem to enjoy the same adulation. However, his importance has never been in question following his incredible role in their treble victory. John Obi-Mikel is the latest to give the Spaniard his flowers as he named Rodri as the most important player in the league. Now that is some serious praise coming from the former Chelsea man.

With 4 goals in 16 games across the Premier League and Champions League, Rodri is continuing to add to his already incredible resume. Coupled with elite defensive and technical qualities, it is understandable as to why Rodri is such an important part of Guardiola’s side.

John Obi-Mikel lavishes praise on Manchester Star

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In a recent interview, the Nigerian star revealed his admiration for Rodri. Obi said, “He’s (Rodri) the most important player in the Premier League right now. He only comes off the pitch if City are 3-0 up, or 4-0 up.” He also explained his claim. Obi said, “What Rodri is doing right now, the possession, the way he attacks, getting into the box, creating chances, defending, tackling, he’s doing everything, building up – everything goes through this guy.”

The defensive midfielder played 4476 minutes last campaign, more than anybody in the side. It seems Guardiola too recognises the importance of his unsung hero. The former Chelsea man also compared the Spaniard to iconic Premier League defensive midfielders, Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira.

Being a former defensive midfielder himself, Obi-Mikel would know quite well how Rodri balances the Manchester City squad. Hence, his absence against Aston Villa might be a headache for Guardiola and Co.

Will Rodri’s absence cost Manchester City?

In the heated clash against Tottenham, the midfielder received his 5th yellow card of the season. This means that Rodri won’t be available against Aston Villa. His previous absence cost City big time and Pep Guardiola would be hoping for a different outcome this time around.

The Spaniard was previously shown a red card against Nottingham Forest in the summer and missed 3 domestic games. Remarkably, Manchester City lost all three games. Considering that Pep Guardiola doesn’t fully trust Kalvin Phillips, it will be interesting to see how the Sky Blues line up against Aston Villa.

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Is Rodri the most important player in the Premier League? Let us know in the comments below.

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John Obi-Mikel lavishes praise on Manchester Star

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Will Rodri’s absence cost Manchester City?

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