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Rodri has opened up on the moment he was released by Spanish third-tier club for being too small physically at 18.
Manchester City midfield general Rodri has opened up on how he was rejected by Spanish third-tier outfit Rayo Majadahonda for being “too small”.
Rodri is a commanding, dominant figure on the pitch which has seen him become one of the best players in the world.
When he joined Manchester City, the 27-year old put on 10 kilos to cope with the physical demands of the Premier League and has never looked back as he explained his passion not just for English football but also Manchester and the fans.
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11:22 - 19.01.2024
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However, he was not the physical presence he now is back in his formative years, something that led to him being released by that club as an 18 year old.
“It is true,” he laughed during an interview with Mirror Football.
“My DNA was late growth but you just have to see my parents how big I was going to become because my father is 190cms and my mum is also very, very tall.
“They just needed to have a bit more patience. When I was 18, I started growing. I think if I asked all footballers, they would say that bad moments, the moments you feel low, are the most important of your career.”
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21:00 - 08.02.2024
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Rodri has revealed how that release effectively put a fire in his belly to do much much better in a future opportunity.
“In my individual experience, my mentality grew in this situation.”
Rodri moved to Atletico Madrid before eventually joining City in 2019, and there were doubts about whether he would cut it in the league considering that perceived demerit of his
“Then they asked me: ‘Are you sure about moving to England? You’re going to be alone…’ I was like I am definitely going because this is what I want and I’m ready for that.
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14:37 - 09.02.2024
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“This kind of situation made me the player that I am. I remember I was in 80kgs when I was at Villarreal and now I am in the 90s.
“I think it’s the stuff they give me here… the shakes and all these things because I’m not a big fan of the gym and so I think it’s a bit of everything.
“It’s a consequence of the Premier League because just competing here makes your body stronger, your mentality and the body. I think England is more intense. Always England has been more physical than other leagues.”
It is that desire to improve, adapt and push himself which is what has made Rodri a special talent.
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21:00 - 25.01.2024
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He is a vital cog in City’s winning machine which has brought a remarkable haul of five trophies in the past 12 months and now they are chasing a record fourth consecutive title.
But personal accolades pale into insignificance compared to the team. It is around now that City kick into gear, go on their winning run and sweep all before them. So how do they time that run-in?
Follow our Pulse Sports WhatsApp channel for more updates.
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