In the third round of this season's Premier League, Manchester City took the lead thanks to Haaland's first-half goal, but suffered a second-half goal and ultimately lost 1-2 to Brighton. Manchester City midfielder Rodri stated that the players must use this time to reflect on themselves and return in better shape.

In the 34th minute, Malmush shook off the defense and passed the ball. Haaland received the ball and pushed the ball into the goal against Brighton goalkeeper Feb Brügen, helping Manchester City take the lead 1-0.

In the 67th minute of the second half, Dunk's volley hit Nunes's hand, giving Brighton a free kick. Milner then converted the penalty kick, tying the game at 1-1. In the 89th minute, Gruda, receiving a diagonal pass from Kaoru Mitoma, found the box and slotted the ball into the empty net, giving Brighton a 2-1 lead.

In the end, Manchester City lost 1-2 to Brighton away from home, suffering two consecutive defeats.

Manchester City midfielder Rodri said, "This result is very disappointing. We are Manchester City and we come here to play to win. But the reality is that we haven't reached our past level for a long time. The only way now is to look at ourselves. We started well, but declined in the second half. In the opponent's home court and under pressure, we made two major mistakes, and the result became 1-2."

"We were not at the level we should have been. It doesn't matter what others say. It's a team problem. There are new players who need to adapt, and when the squad changes so much, it's difficult. That's the reality and it's not an excuse."

Rodri continued, "I don't think we controlled the game, I don't think we played at our best, and we didn't create many chances. We should have won the game because the two goals we conceded were due to mistakes, some of which were even childish mistakes, but this is football. It's easy to blame others when you lose, but if we want to compete for the Premier League title, we have to improve our level."

"We have to reflect on ourselves and realise that this approach will not lead to success. Let's use this international break to clear our minds and come back stronger."

In addition, Rodri missed most of the game last season due to a torn cruciate ligament. In the 2025 Club World Cup, Rodri suffered another injury problem in the match against Al-Hilal.

Rodri said, "I am not Messi. I won't be able to make the team win games all the time as soon as I come back. This is a collective sport. When we won in the past, I needed the help of all my teammates. I must recover and get back to my best form, but it doesn't mean that the team can start winning just because I'm back, because this is a collective sport. I hope that after the international match day, we can return in better condition."