Manchester City midfielder Rodri has expressed concerns that players could be on the verge of striking due to the increasing demands of their schedules.

The Spain international, who played 63 matches last season—including club and country fixtures up to the Euro 2024 final on July 14—faces an even more demanding calendar this year.

With City competing in an expanded Champions League and the new Club World Cup starting in June, Rodri predicts an even greater workload. Rodri stated, “I think we are close to that,” referring to the potential for a strike. He noted that this sentiment is widely shared among players.

“It is something that worries us because we are the ones who suffer,” he added. International players could face up to 85 games this season, and Rodri, who has averaged over 50 club matches per year since joining City in 2019, considers this excessive.

“Between 40 or 50 games is optimal for maintaining peak performance,” he said.

“Anything beyond that, and it becomes difficult to sustain physical levels.”

Despite the busy schedule, Rodri has also been recognized for his achievements, being nominated for the Ballon d’Or after helping City win a fourth consecutive Premier League title and leading Spain to victory at Euro 2024. Although he has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, Rodri remains focused on his commitment to City.

“I have three more years at City,” he confirmed. “When I signed the contract, I didn’t think about other teams.”