Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has voiced concerns over the intense playing schedule faced by his midfielder, Rodri. Guardiola highlighted that Rodri’s current injury is a result of playing 75 matches in the previous season. He suggested that players should be given extended breaks, similar to those in the NBA, to prevent such injuries. Guardiola proposed a holiday period of one and a half to two months after major tournaments like the Euros, allowing players to recuperate fully. He believes that with adequate rest, players could handle even more games, potentially up to 80 per season.
Guardiola’s Recent Comments
Guardiola’s remarks come amidst ongoing discussions about the demands placed on footballers. Recently, he dismissed rumours about leaving Manchester City and discussed the challenges of maintaining a large squad within financial constraints. Additionally, he has been vocal about the impact of missing key players on the team’s performance.
Rodri’s Role and Impact
Rodri, a crucial figure in Manchester City’s midfield, has been instrumental in the team’s success. His absence due to injury underscores the importance of managing player workloads to sustain performance levels throughout the season. Guardiola’s comments reflect a growing concern among managers about the physical toll on players in modern football.