By Simon Wilkes
Manchester City duo Jeremy Doku and Bernardo Silva hailed the impact of Rodri’s return after he dazzled in a 5-2 drubbing of Juventus in the Club World Cup.
The 29-year-old midfielder has been a huge influence for Pep Guardiola’s troops since moving to the Etihad Stadium from Atletico Madrid for £62.8 million in 2019.
Although seen as a defensive midfielder, Rodri adds balance, steel and goals to the Man City midfield, as well as often completing a high number of final-third passes to City’s vast array of attacking players.
Huge impact
The Spanish star suffered a torn ACL and damaged meniscus in September last year – and his absence from the team had a huge impact on City’s defence of the Premier League title.
Arne Slot’s Liverpool were imperious and prised the top-flight crown from City’s grasp in the 2024/25 campaign, finishing 13 points ahead of third-placed City.
The pressure is now on the Merseyside giants to defend their crown – and Man City are likely to pose a bigger challenge now they have Rodri back in their ranks.
The 6ft 3ins 2024 Ballon d’Or winner caught the eye in City’s impressive win over Juve, a victory that secured top spot in Group G and a last-16 clash with Al Hilal, the runners-up from Group H.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Liverpool transfer news: Reds sign Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth
Big boost
Tricky winger Doku scored the first goal on nine minutes, and admitted after the match that it was a huge boost to have Rodri back on the pitch.
He told Sky Sports: “Having him back in the team, you can see the difference and how important he is.
“First game back, starting against a big team, he showed his qualities and he had a lot of impact. I’m happy for him.”
Portugal playmaker Silva also echoed Doku’s sentiments, saying: “Everyone knows how important he is for us.
“We’re happy that slowly he’s getting back to his best level, we know it takes time with the injury he had.
“But you saw here he is getting better and better, and even without being at 100 per cent he helps the team a lot. His character as well makes him a big player.
“We’re very happy with what we did against a top team. It was our best performance at this tournament.
“I don’t know if it’s a statement win, it’s just three points. We’re happy to be here and qualify for the last 16. We’re here to win so we’re one step closer to that goal.”
READ NEXT: Transfer news: Nat Phillips ends nine-year spell with Liverpool, eyes EPL with West Brom
Adam Peaker 
Newsjustnews writers 
Carmela Calling