Pep Guardiola defends Rodri substitution after Monaco draw has he delivered a sharp response to suggestions that his decision to take off the midfielder played a role in Manchester City’s late collapse against the Ligue 1 side in midweek.
The Cityzens were left frustrated after letting a two-goal lead slip in France, with Erling Haaland’s first-half brace cancelled out by a stoppage-time penalty from Eric Dier. As the final whistle blew, many City supporters turned their attention to Guardiola’s substitutions — particularly the decision to withdraw Rodri, who has long been central to City’s midfield stability.
Guardiola Defends Rodri Substitution After Monaco Draw
Rodri’s early exit from the game drew criticism from sections of the fanbase, who felt that Manchester City’s midfield control weakened after his departure. Others, however, pointed out that Nico González – who replaced him – made several valuable contributions before conceding a late penalty.
Guardiola, mindful of Rodri’s recurring knee problems, has been cautious in managing the Spaniard’s workload throughout the season.
“We cannot play with 12,” Guardiola said when pressed about the change. “I know Rodri is irreplaceable in many things. He couldn’t play three days before because his knee was in a bad, bad condition.”
The City boss has repeatedly emphasized the challenge of maintaining fitness levels across a demanding campaign that spans the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and other competitions.
“And I would love to tell you that because Rodri is not on the pitch, we conceded the goal [vs AS Monaco], but I cannot prove that,” he continued. “Because if I felt it, Rodri would have been on the pitch. But Rodri cannot play in certain games, maybe 90 minutes, for many, many games.”
Speaking to journalists ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Brentford, the City boss appeared frustrated by suggestions that his decision cost the team points. When asked whether the late equaliser came as a direct result of Rodri’s absence, Guardiola defends Rodri substitution and immediately snapped back:
“Are you suggesting they scored because Nico Gonzalez was on the pitch and not Rodri? How do you prove that? Me neither, so change the subject.”
Adapting to Change: Manchester City’s Midfield Evolution
This season has seen Manchester City navigate several transitions in midfield. With İlkay Gündoğan’s summer move to Galatasaray and Mateo Kovacic still regaining full fitness following an injury, Guardiola has been forced to experiment with different combinations.
Nico González, a young and promising midfielder, has been handed opportunities in recent weeks — most notably during City’s 4-0 victory over Burnley, where Guardiola praised his composure and tactical discipline.
“And Nico [Gonzalez] played really good vs Burnley. And he’s learning and he’s improving and we need him. Rodri cannot sustain still the rhythm for 90 minutes in games. Sometimes, I want the best players there to be fit but he’s still not, so I have to protect my players,” Guardiola explained.
The Spaniard’s comments underline his long-term view of squad management. As City look to win multiple titles, balancing minutes and maintaining player fitness remains a key part of Guardiola’s strategy. Rodri’s influence — as a deep-lying playmaker and defensive shield — is unmatched, but Guardiola knows the risk of overreliance.
Nico González’s development has therefore become increasingly significant. Though his inexperience showed against Monaco, Guardiola insists patience is crucial.
READ MORE: Pep Guardiola gives verdict on Erling Haaland anger after Man City draw
The City boss has been known for gradually integrating young players into his tactical framework, ensuring they learn the demands of his complex positional play.
There are also potential opportunities for others, including Rico Lewis, who has excelled in hybrid midfield and defensive roles. The teenager’s tactical intelligence and pressing ability could make him a useful option in matches where Guardiola seeks greater energy and control.
Looking ahead, Guardiola’s management of Rodri will be a central storyline for the rest of the campaign. The midfielder’s importance is undeniable.
“The truth is, Rodri is irreplaceable in many respects,” Guardiola admitted recently. “But if Manchester City are to compete deep into every competition, finding reliable alternatives will be vital.”
That quest will test Guardiola’s adaptability — a quality that has defined his success across Europe.
At Barcelona, Bayern Munich, and now Manchester City, the Catalan coach has built teams that evolve with each season. Integrating new players, rotating key figures, and reinventing tactical systems have all been hallmarks of his managerial philosophy.
