Rodri says Arsenal have a player who ‘could be one of the best’

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Manchester City midfielder Rodri has a lot of admiration for one member of Mikel Arteta’s squad.

The Spanish midfielder has been a problem player for Arsenal and the whole Premier League for many years. 

Rodri has made comments about Arsenal that fans at the Emirates don’t appreciate, most notably about the mentality of the squad in various title races.

That’s not to say, however, that the 29-year-old isn’t a fan of some of the talent within Mikel Arteta’s side, with Rodri’s admiration for one Gunner coming to light on international duty. 

Rodri is a huge fan of Arsenal’s Martin Zubimendi

Three of Arsenal’s players on September international duty are alongside Rodri in Luis de la Fuente’s squad. 

Mikel Merino and Martin Zubimendi were in action when Spain beat Bulgaria 3-0, with their sights now set on Sunday night’s clash against Turkey. 

Ahead of the fixture, Rodri faced the media, where he commented on Zubimendi taking his spot in De La Fuente’s favoured XI.

“Zubimendi could be one of the best; it’s a challenge for him to go to Arsenal,” Rodri said, as transcribed by ElDesmarque. 

The Manchester City star then revealed a conversation he had with Zubimendi following his ACL injury almost a year ago.

“When I got injured, I told him it was his time to take over the team. I’m happy to see the team at the same level,” he insisted.

Rodri suffered his ACL injury against Arsenal in the early stages of last season, returning to a Manchester City squad whose levels have dipped.

The midfielder not only faces a challenge at City, but for his country too, as Zubimendi is proving to be difficult competition.

Zubimendi vs Rodri will be a clash to behold

Interestingly, Zubimendi isn’t the only player admired by Rodri, who is also a fan of Declan Rice.

Spain’s midfield is in good hands with Zubimendi and Rodri to choose between in the holding role, and soon after the international break, the pair will meet again. 

When Arsenal take on Manchester City at the Emirates on matchday five, it will represent the first time Rodri and Zubimendi have gone head-to-head in a match.

It’ll be a spectacle for those watching to enjoy, with two of the world’s best midfielders clashing for three points.