Rodri: From Great to the World’s Best – And Still Getting Better
Rodri, fresh off winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or, credits Manchester City’s staff for his transformation into one of the best players in the world. In an exclusive interview with FourFourTwo in Madrid, where he’s recovering from an ACL injury, Rodri revealed his ambitious plans for further improvement. So, how does the world’s best midfielder plan to level up?
“To Be Colder”
“To be colder,” Rodri explained. “Less passionate, and be a better leader every day. The final third is also something I’ve paid attention to – to be involved in goals and assists. Controlling myself when I’m tired, too – don’t move that much, try to stay.”
Despite his already impeccable game, the Spaniard is laser-focused on refining his leadership and offensive contributions. He also emphasizes managing his energy to maintain his influence throughout matches.
A Complete Midfielder
Rodri’s versatility is unparalleled. He’s a defensive powerhouse who’s even excelled as a centre-back on the World Cup stage. His passing, tempo-setting, and tactical awareness allow him to dictate play from deep or push forward as a creative force.
In recent years, he’s added goals to his repertoire, including a crucial strike in the Champions League final. His long-range shooting has become a deadly weapon, and his physical attributes—strength, speed, and stamina—make him a force for over 90 minutes.
Humble Beginnings in England
Rodri acknowledges he wasn’t always this polished. Reflecting on his arrival at City five years ago, he said, “In my first year at City, I used to jump forward a lot, pressing high. Sometimes that’s good, many times not, because if they then play around you, the team is naked.”
City’s coaching staff played a pivotal role in honing his positional discipline. “In my first year, the coaches were really strict with me about it – ‘pow, pow, pow’ with clips,” he shared. “They watch you going to the side and say, ‘Why are you going there? You must protect over here?’”
He continued, “The moment you lose that position, you lose the heart of the team, and most goals come from the central area. If you’re there, it’s harder for opponents.”
The Best Is Yet to Come
Rodri’s vow to return “colder” is a fascinating prospect. FourFourTwo speculates that this mental evolution will make him even more formidable when he steps back onto the pitch. If the best player in the world hasn’t yet hit his ceiling, opponents have every reason to worry.
