Manchester City midfielder Rodri has discussed Pep Guardiola's importance to the development of his role in the middle of the pitch for the Blues.
The Spanish tactician played a similar role to the current City man during his time as a professional with Barcelona and although the game has progressed in certain ways, Guardiola has still helped him in his role following his move from Atletico Madrid in 2019.
And Rodri's influence has been instrumental in City's defensive record this season with the Blues only shipping three goals in eight games this season in the Premier League.
Rodri ensured that they earned a point after a dominant display against Liverpool after Ederson missed the flight of a delivery which fell to the feet of Fabinho — with the Spain international flinging his body in the way of the danger to deny a certain goal.
"For me he's been so so important because he played the same position, the way he communicated with me, he translated what he demands I had to give, it's easy to understand what he wants from me, I'm satisfied," he told Soccer AM.
"He understands that the game has changed, we don't play the same football they did but the position is the same, so that helps me a lot.
"I think they're understanding how important it is. All the big teams have a holding midfielder, it's a key position, in my opinion, it is the most important position."
In the two years since his move from La Liga, he has been able to adjust to the change in tempo, intensity and the speed that comes with playing in the English top flight.
Rodri noted the change in "rhythm" between the two cultures, adding: "I think they're so different, you play in another rhythm. Here you have more speed, less time to think with the ball, less tactics, it's a little bit physical but at the same time growing everyday.
"It's different, just the way you play, in La Liga it's a little more tactical, slower."
Sign up to our City newsletter so you never miss an update from the Etihad Stadium this season.
