Nico knocks back Rodri comparisons: Don’t see it
Manchester City midfielder Nico González has dismissed comparisons to teammate Rodri, saying he does not view himself as a direct replacement for the injured Spaniard ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League fixture against Villarreal.
Rodri, the reigning Ballon d’Or winner, remains sidelined with a hamstring injury sustained before the international break, extending his spell out after missing most of last season following knee surgery. González, signed from Porto in January for around €42 million to provide depth in defensive midfield, is expected to continue deputising in his absence.
“I don’t look at the news. I don’t know what you guys are talking about,” González told reporters at Villarreal’s Estadio de la Cerámica on Monday. “He’s a teammate, and it’s important for the team that he makes us play so well, but I don’t see any comparison or pay much attention to those things.”
The 23-year-old added that he values Rodri’s mentorship but models his own style on another Spanish great. “I try to listen and learn a lot from him. For example, at halftime of the last game, he gave me some advice about what he saw,” González said. “But if I have to compare myself to anyone, it would be Sergio Busquets. I watched him growing up at Barcelona and learned a lot from him when I played alongside him.”
Rodri has travelled with the City squad to Villarreal, the club where he began his professional career, though he will not feature. Manager Pep Guardiola said he hopes the veteran midfielder’s presence will continue to benefit González’s development.
“Hopefully Rodri will be back to train more often with him,” Guardiola said. “Nico is improving every week. It’s not easy adapting to our system after coming from another league, but we’re really pleased with his behaviour and progress. He’ll keep getting better month by month, year by year.”
Rodri came through Villarreal’s youth ranks before moving to Atlético Madrid and later joining City in 2019, where he has since become one of Europe’s most influential holding midfielders. Villarreal coach Marcelino expressed disappointment that the hometown favourite will not play.
“It’s a shame he isn’t on the pitch,” Marcelino said. “He’s the best player in the world in his position. I’m sure he would have loved to play here, and Villarreal fans would have loved to see him. He’s admired and loved here.”
González’s continued development offers Guardiola added depth in midfield as City navigate a demanding stretch across domestic and European competitions.