Rodri’s Ballon d’Or Parade Overshadowed by City’s Staggering Defeat to Tottenham
Rodri made his long-awaited return to the Etihad on Saturday, parading his Ballon d’Or before Manchester City fans for the first time in nearly two months. However, what was meant to be a day of celebration quickly turned into frustration for the reigning champions as they were handed a crushing 4-0 defeat by Tottenham.
Rodri’s pre-match moment in the spotlight was an emotional one as he lifted the Ballon d’Or before a damp and eager Etihad crowd. The Spanish midfielder had been absent since injuring his cruciate knee ligaments against Arsenal on September 22. The occasion should have been about his recognition as the world’s best, but City’s disappointing performance soon deflated the atmosphere.
Pep Guardiola’s New Contract Fails to Spark Revival
Rodri’s return coincided with Pep Guardiola’s new contract announcement, yet neither the excitement of Guardiola’s extended stay nor Rodri’s Ballon d’Or triumph could halt City’s downward spiral. The match started brightly, but City’s intensity quickly fizzled out, and frustration grew inside the Etihad. While Guardiola has often steered City through tough patches, this one felt particularly unsettling.
The manager cited injuries as a significant factor, with three center-backs returning to action, but the real concern seems to be in midfield. With Mateo Kovacic joining Rodri on the sidelines, City’s midfield has been overrun. Despite winning 10 out of 12 games without Rodri earlier this season, his absence is now glaringly obvious, and City’s performance is suffering as a result.
Rodri’s Return and His Future at City
As Rodri watched from the stands, the contrast between his absence and City’s struggles was evident. Recently, the midfielder has sparked rumors of a potential move to Real Madrid, where he admitted that the club’s interest was an “honor” that must be considered. While he reassured fans of his happiness at City, the notion of contract talks beginning soon is a worrying sign for the club.
City’s failure to maintain form in his absence only highlights his value. As his teammates toiled against Tottenham, Rodri’s absence became painfully clear.
A Lavish Celebration, But a Stark Reminder of City’s Fragility
Rodri’s Ballon d’Or celebration was nothing short of grand. A video showcasing his rise to stardom played on the big screens, followed by a spectacular moment where he lifted the golden trophy amid a display of flames and chants of “Rodri’s on fire.” The pre-match ceremony was a fitting tribute to a player who has made history with the club, and a reminder of what City stands to lose if they can’t secure his future.
The lavish production would not have looked out of place in Madrid, and with Real’s recent reaction to Vinicius Jr. being overlooked for the Ballon d’Or, one could wonder if the spectacle was also a subtle message about Rodri’s value.
Five consecutive defeats are undeniably damaging, but City’s struggles during Rodri’s absence should only be temporary—provided they can retain the midfielder’s services in the long term.
