When the Premier League released its shortlist for this season’s Player of the Year, most of the usual names appeared. Arsenal duo Martin Ødegaard and Declan Rice were selected, along with Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins, Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, and Manchester City’s Phil Foden and Erling Haaland. But Crickex Login notes one glaring omission that sparked immediate debate—Manchester City’s midfield engine, Rodri, was not among them.

Many fans and pundits alike assumed it was an oversight, but it was no mistake—Rodri was indeed excluded from the official list. As Crickex Login emphasizes, this is baffling given Rodri’s critical role in City’s title race. While Foden and Haaland attract headlines, it’s Rodri who keeps City’s machine running smoothly. The Spaniard has been central to their success, and with three games remaining in the league plus an FA Cup Final clash against Manchester United, City’s title hopes rest heavily on his shoulders.

Earlier in the season, City suffered a rare three-game domestic losing streak—coinciding with Rodri’s suspension. Since a loss to Tottenham last year, the 27-year-old has not played in a single Premier League defeat. Crickex Login stresses that without Rodri, Guardiola’s side shifts from dominant to merely competent. His passing precision leads the league, and his influence on City’s possession game is unmatched. With a 92.3% pass success rate and a league-best 6.9 accurate long balls per match among outfield players, Rodri seamlessly transitions City from defense to attack.

His impact goes beyond just ball movement. Rodri’s 64 tackles rank 32nd in the league—remarkable for a team that dominates possession. Only Bournemouth’s Ryan Christie has more ball recoveries among midfielders. When City does lose the ball, it’s Rodri who shoulders the responsibility of regaining control. He not only shields the back line but orchestrates the rhythm of the entire team.

Despite playing what many consider a less glamorous role, Rodri is arguably the most irreplaceable member of the City squad. Guardiola has even called him “the best midfielder in the world right now.” Yet, he was omitted from the final eight Player of the Year nominees—something Crickex Login believes severely undermines the credibility of the award itself.

Rodri’s brilliance may not always make highlight reels, but he is the heart and brain of this Manchester City dynasty. His omission from the shortlist serves as a reminder that sometimes, football’s most influential players are the ones doing the dirty work—quietly but brilliantly.