Has Rodri absence cost Man City? Or is his importance overstated?

Has Rodri absence cost Man City? Or is his importance overstated?Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Manchester City midfielder Rodri has missed the last three games because of a groin injuryByShamoon HafezManchester City reporterPublished2 minutes agoCommentsManchester City's trophyless 2024-25 season was derailed by a series of injuries to key first-team players - none more important than Rodri.The Spain captain sustained a serious knee injury that ruled him out for most of the campaign and City endured the unthinkable under Pep Guardiola by ending the season without any silverware for the first time in eight years.The midfielder was awarded the Ballon d'Or in 2024, which not only confirmed his status as the best player in the world but also highlighted his importance to Guardiola and City.Although he has returned to fitness and featured in 35 games for club and country this season, Rodri has spent additional time on the sidelines with a hamstring injury and now a groin issue.Guardiola said Rodri's fitness will be assessed before making a decision on whether he can face Brentford on Saturday (kick-off 17:30 BST)."We have survived without him for many many months," he said. "He still doesn't feel completely comfortable. He will be ready when he is fit - we will see on Friday afternoon or on Saturday."Everton result leaves City chasingRodri featured in the impressive Carabao Cup final win against Arsenal and Guardiola said in March that the 29-year-old was getting better "step by step".He was then pivotal in the 2-1 victory against the Gunners that gave City the edge in the title race, but was forced off with a groin injury towards the end of that match in April.He subsequently missed the narrow victories over Burnley in the Premier League and against Southampton in the FA Cup semi-final - but most significantly in Monday's chaotic 3-3 draw at Everton. City let slip their lead and their advantage in the tit...