In a stunning revelation that will ignite the Premier League title race, Manchester City's midfield lynchpin Rodri has declared Arsenal as the true challengers to their crown, openly dismissing the threat from rivals Liverpool.
The Spanish international, whose goal secured City's historic Champions League triumph last season, delivered his explosive verdict in a remarkably candid interview, praising Mikel Arteta's transformation of the Gunners into a formidable force.
The Arteta Revolution Earns City's Respect
Rodri's comments signify a major shift in the power dynamic, acknowledging the seismic progress made at the Emirates Stadium. "Arsenal have taken a step forward," he stated, highlighting their significant improvement from the previous campaign.
He pinpointed the North London club's resilience as their key strength, a quality he believes Liverpool now lack. "They have the same coach and the same ideas. For me, they are the biggest rivals." This direct comparison is a damning assessment of Jurgen Klopp's final season at Anfield.
A Psychological Blow in the Title Race
This public endorsement from the heart of the reigning champions is more than just praise; it's a psychological gambit. By elevating Arsenal and downplaying Liverpool, Rodri has subtly placed the pressure squarely on the Gunners while potentially destabilising a rival.
His analysis of Liverpool was brutally honest: "They have lost a bit of this mentality... they are not the same Liverpool as before." This insight from a player who has battled them for years carries significant weight.
With the title race reaching its nail-biting climax, Rodri's words have added a fascinating new narrative. He hasn't just commented on the race; he's actively shaped it, declaring a new era of rivalry between Pep Guardiola's City and Arteta's rising Arsenal.
