Rodri: From ‘Disaster’ to Football’s Best? The Case for the World’s Top Midfielder

With only one defeat for club or country over the past 18 months, Manchester City’s Rodri is making a strong case as the world’s most influential player right now. During this period, the 28-year-old Spanish midfielder has added a host of accolades to his name, including the Champions League, two Premier League titles, FA Cup, UEFA Super Cup, Club World Cup, Nations League, and Euro 2024.

Rodri’s consistency has been key to Manchester City’s dominance, and his return from a recent hamstring injury couldn’t have come at a better time, just ahead of a crucial match against Arsenal. City’s performance with Rodri on the field compared to without him is staggering: they lose 24% of matches when he’s not playing versus only 11% with him in the lineup.

Initially viewed as a player in Fernandinho’s shadow, Rodri has not only stepped up but surpassed expectations. His passing, vision, and ability to control the midfield have earned him comparisons with some of the Premier League’s greatest players, and his importance to City has been underscored by their consistent success when he’s on the pitch.

Statistically, Rodri leads Europe’s top five leagues in completed passes, successful passes in the opposition half, and final-third deliveries, placing him among elite company in world football. His crucial goal in the 2022-23 Champions League final was the pinnacle of a season where he scored nine goals, further showcasing his knack for big moments.

City’s reliance on Rodri has never been clearer, and his contribution to Spain’s Euro 2024 victory only solidified his status as a midfield maestro. As the Ballon d’Or approaches, Rodri is in the conversation, challenging the dominance of attacking players and making a case for the value of defensive midfielders.