The 2-1 loss represented the Spaniard’s first start in the league for almost a year after a knee injury in the September 2024 draw with Arsenal.
He put in an impressive showing personally, completing a game-high 84 passes.
With only substitute appearances and one start at the FIFA Club World Cup since his injury, it was a big step on the road to full fitness for our Ballon d’Or winner.
Rodri calls for clear minds after Brighton loss
While extremely disappointed with the result, Rodri gave a positive review of how his body coped with the test.
“Physically well. Much better than I expected to be honest,” he said.
“Happy to come back. Not in the ideal scenario but it is what it is. I arrive in to this team, which has changed a lot.
“We have to know that there are lots of things to improve and at the minute that we don’t have the level to win game by game.”
Watch the full post-match interview above...
