Speaking ahead of the match, Rodri highlighted the physical and mental toll the growing number of fixtures is taking on players. "Yes, I think we are close to that," Rodri said when asked about the possibility of a strike. "If it keeps this way, we will have no other option. It is something that worries us."

Rodri's concerns reflect a growing discontent among players, echoed by Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson, who recently criticized football authorities for neglecting players’ wellbeing amid the increasingly congested calendar. The new format of the Champions League, where each team now plays eight league fixtures, adds to the existing pressures.

Additionally, City will also compete in the expanded Club World Cup at the end of the season, further intensifying their workload.

While Rodri’s remarks have stirred discussion, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola took a more cautious approach, focusing on the immediate task at hand. "We are in our first game, then the second, and we will see what happens in the last games to go through," Guardiola commented, avoiding speculation about future developments.