Manchester City midfielder Rodri has downplayed expectations that his return alone can transform the team’s fortunes, insisting he does not have the game-changing powers of Lionel Messi.
Rodri was back in Pep Guardiola’s starting lineup on Sunday as City suffered a 2-1 defeat to Brighton at the Amex Stadium. Despite his presence, the former champions failed to recover from an early setback, leaving them with just three points from their opening three fixtures.
Speaking after the game, the Spaniard admitted he cannot single-handedly carry City to victories, stressing that football remains a collective effort. He pointed to Messi’s unique talent as an example of an individual who could consistently turn matches on his own, but clarified he is not that type of player.
“I’m not Messi. I’m not going to come back and make the team win and win,” Rodri said. “When we won in the past, it was because I had all my teammates working together.”
Rodri, who has been a key figure in City’s midfield over the past seasons, acknowledged he still needs time to reach his best form after returning from the summer break. He said improvement must come from the entire squad rather than relying on one or two individuals.
“This is a collective sport,” he added. “For sure I have to recover and find my best level, but it’s not because I’m back that we’re suddenly going to win. We have to do it together.”
