Manchester City are preparing for a crucial meeting against archrivals Liverpool. However, Pep Guardiola’s players are in jeopardy due to a slew of ailments that have plagued the club. Even their best striker, Erling Haaland, was injured during the international break. While Haaland’s return will surely have an impact, it may be the return of another injured player who holds the key to City’s success.

City’s injury list is lengthy, potentially depriving the squad of key players ahead of this critical match. Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne, Ederson, Nathan Ake, Mateo Kovacic, and John Stones are among others on the list. The squad will, however, be anxious to re-sign Spanish midfielder Rodri.

Why does Manchester City require Rodri to succeed?

Rodri’s omission from the Spanish national team’s selection against Cyprus aroused eyebrows, with sources claiming that he was absent due to discomfort. Nonetheless, Rodri returned in the following game against Georgia, signaling that he may be fit and available for the Liverpool match. Having the defensive midfielder back on the field is critical for City fans, and his presence may be even more important than Haaland’s.

While Haaland’s goal-scoring ability has surely contributed to City’s success in a number of games, Rodri’s performances have been crucial in clinching victory. In reality, according to OPTA data, City has only won 60% of matches without Rodri since the 2019-20 season, compared to 74.2% when he is on the field.

To highlight the significance of Rodri’s position, consider City’s performance this season. Their only two defeats this season have come at the hands of Arsenal and Wolves. Rodri was suspended for both of these games owing to a red card. These results highlight the significance of the absence of the Spanish midfielder. Furthermore, when examining the team composition, it is clear why Rodri’s return is more important than Haaland’s.

Erling Haaland is replaceable, although Rodri is not

Julian Alvarez, an Argentine forward, has demonstrated his capacity to step up and contribute with his goal-scoring abilities. In 18 games, Alvarez has already scored 7 goals and supplied 5 assists. As a result, he is a viable replacement for the Norwegian forward. Finding a suitable replacement for Rodri, on the other hand, proves far more difficult.

De Bruyne’s hamstring injury, which has kept him out since August, has already hampered the midfield. In addition, as a potential successor for Rodri, Kalvin Phillips, who joined the squad last year, has battled to establish his form.

When all of these elements are considered, it becomes evident that Rodri’s comeback is critical to the team’s success. The best-case scenario would be to have both Rodri and Haaland back. Recent updates on Haaland’s injuries have been encouraging, indicating that he may be able to play against Liverpool.