I don't think Pet is playing mind games. Losing Rodri is a big loss for Man City's squad. Rodri is a player who no one can replace directly. Rodri's absence will create a huge gap in midfield, affecting Man City's ability to control the game and the solidity of the defense. Coach Pep Guardiola faces a difficult problem when finding a replacement. With his contributions, Man City has no similar player. Man City will have to find a way to adjust and other players can come together to replace Rodri.
The likes of John Stones, Mateo Kovacic, and Ilkay Gundogan are potential replacements from the current squad. Of course, Guardiola has not ruled out the possibility of Man City signing a new midfielder in January.
Losing Rodri is big problem for Manchester City. He is special player who ca not be replaced easily. Coach Pep Guardiola must find new way to strengthen team midfield. Some players like John Stones and Mateo Kovacic and Ilkay Gundogan can help but they are not as good as Rodri. Guardiola needs to change his strategy and use his players wisely. If not City might struggle to win title. They might buy new midfielder in January but until then they must find way to overcome Rodri absence.