Rodri Earns Praise from Man City Teammates After Dominant Euro 2024 Campaign
Manchester City midfielder Rodri continues to impress his club teammates with his performances at Euro 2024, with several Citizens stars praising the Spanish international's tournament form.
The 27-year-old has been instrumental in Spain's run to the semifinals, starting all five matches and maintaining his reputation as one of world football's most complete defensive midfielders. His city colleagues have been closely following his progress in Germany.
Key Stats from Euro 2024:
- 95% pass accuracy (highest among midfielders)
- 8.3km average distance covered per match
- 22 tackles won (3rd in tournament)
- 0 goals conceded while on pitch
"Rodri is just different class," City defender Kyle Walker told reporters. "What he's doing for Spain doesn't surprise any of us - we see it every day in training. He makes the game look easy."
Pep Guardiola has reportedly been sending Rodri personal messages of encouragement throughout the tournament, with the City manager viewing him as irreplaceable in his system. Rodri hasn't lost a match for club or country in 74 appearances dating back to February 2023.
Teammate Bernardo Silva added: "When Rodri plays, we all play better. His understanding of space and timing is perfect. Spain are lucky to have him."
The midfielder's importance was highlighted when Spain struggled in their quarterfinal against Germany after Rodri was briefly forced off with a knock. His return stabilized the team before their eventual extra-time victory.
Rodri's Euro 2024 Performances:
- Man of the Match vs Croatia (3-0 win)
- 92 touches in win against Italy
- Tournament-high 15 interceptions
- Created 7 chances from deep positions
With Spain facing France in the semifinals, City staff are reportedly monitoring Rodri's minutes carefully ahead of the new Premier League season. However, the midfielder has shown no signs of fatigue, covering more ground than any other Spanish player.
"His fitness levels are incredible," said City's head of performance. "We're not worried - he knows his body better than anyone."
Rodri will return to Manchester as one of the first players for preseason training in mid-July, where he's expected to be given an extended break if Spain go all the way in the tournament.