Manchester City midfielder Rodri returned to action against Sunderland after several weeks out and earned praise from manager Pep Guardiola for his performance.
In just 45 minutes on the pitch, the Spaniard had 66 touches, created two chances and won 75% of his ground duels in a big boost for his side.
However, the Cityzens could not breach a stubborn defence and had to settle for a goalless draw, putting an end to their eight-game win streak.
“He [Rodri] changed the game. He proved in 45 minutes that he is the best in his position”, Guardiola said after the match.
“Football is about the players — in the buildup we struggled and with Rodri we struggled less.
“He broke the lines, we moved better and one year and a half without him we missed him a lot.
“Hopefully he can stay fit because he makes us a better team”, he added.
Man City had hoped for a win to reduce Arsenal’s lead at the top and thought they had an early goal, but Bernando Silva’s strike was ruled out for offside.
Both sides traded several chances to break the deadlock, but it was City who came closest as Gvardiol’s effort struck the post.
The game ended without a goal as they settled for a share of the spoils, leaving Sunderland unbeaten at home this season, while Man City’s deficit at the top is now four points.
“Tough place to come, the amount of chances we missed in the six-yard box, not difficult ones, we could not convert”, Pep Guardiola stated.
“We didn’t do what we talked about in the first half, but in general it was a really good game against a fantastic team.
“I’m so proud of my players against a difficult opponent. We did everything we could to win.
“The guys are a bit heads down, but we have to be heads up because in three days we have a difficult game against Chelsea”, the Spaniard concluded.
Man City face manager-less Chelsea on Sunday, after the Blues parted ways with Enzo Maresca on Thursday.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
