After feeling a little discomfort in the hamstring, Rodri decided to leave the court immediately. The Manchester City midfielder did not think this was a serious problem, but he knew that leaving the court as soon as possible was the wisest choice. This was the best decision for Rodri, but it was a challenge for Nico Gonzalez who came on the bench. When he saw his number on the electronic substitution board, he hurriedly put on his jersey and had no time to warm up and went straight into the game. Even though the team eventually defeated Brentford 1-0, Gonzalez admitted that it was very difficult for him.
In recent times, Gonzalez's performance has indeed not been satisfactory. Guardiola pointed out that in the game against Monaco, Gonzalez had more steals in 30 minutes than in Rodri in 60 minutes, and the team's conversion errors after he came on the court were reduced. However, a penalty he gave to his opponent at the last moment became the focus and attracted some harsh criticism.
A week ago, Guardiola had many long on-field exchanges with Gonzalez in the League Cup against Huddersfield, which made people feel that he still has a lot to learn. Of course, Gonzalez is indeed trying to adapt, but it is very difficult for him to replace Rodri.
Originally, Gonzalez was a temporary arrangement for the No. 6 position, but this arrangement became even more complicated due to Rodri's injury problems, Gundogan's transfer to Galatasaray and Kovaci were unable to play due to Achilles tendon surgery. Gonzalez is more suitable for competing with Reindez, but the situation is not good for him now.
Experienced players like Gundogan also had headaches when they were asked to play the No. 6 last season, so Gonzalez also needed understanding and support. People often forget how long it took Rodri to take over Fernandinho's place, and even if he didn't make the Champions League finals at the end of his third season at Manchester City, it didn't cause much controversy.
Gonzalez is doing the right thing, and Guardiola is supporting him in public, although it seems on the court that he wishes he could come on the field to help his fellow countrymen himself. The perceptions of the £50m new player remain divided, but hopefully he will get a fair chance in the position that best suits him, rather than continue to fill the squad.