Rodri hints at behind-the-scenes problems leading to Manchester City decline | OneFootball

Manchester City vice-captain Rodri has insisted that off-the-field matters must also change in order for the Men’s First-Team squad to return to its scintillating best.

The Spaniard’s comments come in the aftermath of City’s 2-1 defeat to Brighton at the Amex Stadium, a result that extended their concerning run of form heading into the international break.

Having been sidelined since September 2024, Rodri’s return was meant to provide some much-needed stability in midfield, but Pep Guardiola’s squad once again fell short in key moments on the South Coast.

City’s current struggles have been attributed to a combination of injuries, tactical adjustments, and inconsistent individual performances across the squad. Manager Pep Guardiola has been without several important figures in recent months, while younger players have been thrust into greater responsibility as part of a transitional period for the side.

Rodri’s reflections now add another layer, suggesting that issues away from the pitch may also be influencing results, and comments also come at a time when other senior players – such as Bernardo Silva and Ruben Dias – have spoken publicly about the need for improvement.

Speaking during a recent interview with the Manchester City club website, Rodri was initially asked about his return to the starting line-up in the Premier League for the first time since September 2024, and the state of his fitness at present.

“Physically well. Much better than expected. Happy to come back [vs Brighton], not in the ideal scenario but it is what it is,” the midfielder explained. “I arrive [back] in this team and this team has changed a lot, we have to know there are lots to improve and know at the minute we don’t have the level to win game by game.”

Offering further insight into his comments, Rodri continued, “We have to adjust many things, not only on the pitch. I think outside many things have to improve, but we’re a team. When we lose, when we win, we’re all together, and we’ll find a solution 100 per cent.”

“I think we have to look to ourselves, I think we’re not at the level yet, and when you face these kind of teams [Brighton] they can beat you in two actions – it’s what’s happened [on Sunday].”

The 29-year-old closed, “I think it’s better to go [on an international break], to refresh a little bit the mind, and come back with positive energy. I think we didn’t have a good start, but let’s see when we come back.”

Rodri’s comments will inevitably spark further speculation about what exactly lies behind Manchester City’s recent dip. The reference to “outside” factors may point towards broader squad management, off-field distractions, or even issues around fitness and rotation.

Looking ahead, much will depend on how Manchester City respond once domestic action resumes. The return of key figures like Rodri, coupled with the recovery of injured players and potential tactical tweaks, could be decisive in determining whether City rediscover their best form.

For now, the international break offers both players and staff an opportunity to reset, with Manchester City supporters eager to see whether the Premier League giants can emerge stronger in the weeks to come.