Manchester City's slump continued on Saturday as the reigning Premier League champions were held to a 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.
The result means it's just one win in eight games for Pep Guardiola's men, and they sit fourth in the Premier League table.
It's a run that's been impeded by the loss of key midfield star Rodri, who was ruled out for the rest of the season following an injury against Arsenal in September and former Man City winger Martin Petrov believes his absence is having a big effect on the team.
Speaking to Flash Score, the Bulgarian says his old club are suffering without the 'best player in the world'.
"He’s the current Ballon d’Or; that pretty much says it all," Petrov said.
"The other players in his position... they are all great, but they lack his influence, calmness, and leadership on the field.
"He just projects all that. It's normal for the players trying to replace him to start hearing voices in their own heads: 'Hey, I’m in for the best player in the world; I have to be at least close to his level.
"The pressure is huge, and it affects your game in certain situations. Some of the goals were conceded after bad passes in their half. But they won’t change their style; it’s in the DNA of City and Guardiola."
Much was made of Rodri's Ballon d'Or win, so much so, it saw Real Madrid abandon the ceremony in protest at the award not going to Vinicius Jr. However, Petrov believes the Spainard deserved the big golden ball.
Adding: "I think he totally deserved it; he became a European champion with Spain, and we already touched on his contribution to Manchester City's recent success.
"I’m not saying it wouldn’t have been deserved if Vinicius had won, but I can’t see a scandal here. Maybe Messi and Cristiano have built the perception that attacking players should win it almost every year, but Rodri also scored some great and crucial goals.
"For me, Madrid overreacted by refusing to attend the ceremony. They created most of the scandal; it was disrespectful. At every Ballon d’Or edition, there will always be someone who feels underappreciated, upset, or angry. But you have to show dignity and respect, go there and shake hands with the winner."