Manchester City midfielder Rodri has spoken to the media ahead of facing Arsenal on matchday five of the Premier League season.
The Spaniard had a tough time against Arsenal during the 2024/25 campaign, suffering an ACL injury when the Gunners drew at the Etihad.
Rodri’s ACL injury was devastating for City, who went on to struggle that season, but now, they are showing signs of revival.
There is already a lot of hostility between Arsenal and Rodri, who hasn’t been shy to share his true opinion on the Gunners in the past.
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Rodri previews Arsenal vs Manchester City
Ahead of Sunday’s Premier League blockbuster, Rodri passed comment on Mikel Arteta’s current Arsenal squad.
Speaking to Stadium Astro, the midfielder admitted he doesn’t ‘care’ about what happened at the Emirates last season between the two sides.
“Yeah, we’re going with the mentality to win there. I don’t care what happened last season,” Rodri said with regard to Arsenal’s 5-1 win over City.
The Spain international doubled down that Pep Guardiola’s squad are back at a familiar level, but couldn’t deny that Arsenal are in the same condition.
“We have the level to go there and show again our best shape,” he said.
“We know they’re an unbelievable team, they reform the team every year with incredible signings, and every day they are better and better, like every team.
“It is the beginning of the season, but it will be a good message if we go and win in their home.”
Arsenal’s improved squad depth has been spoken about a lot since the season kicked off, giving Arteta the chance to flex his new-look team against his former teacher.
Rodri has a point to prove against Arsenal
Rodri blasted Arsenal’s mentality after winning the Premier League title with City, sparking a bit of a feud with fans.
At the Emirates, the Spaniard will arrive with a point to prove, but not to those in the stands.
In midfield, there will be a clash to behold, as Rodri will face Martin Zubimendi, the player who is currently ahead of him in Spain’s pecking order.
Rodri knows how good Zubimendi is and has been humble about the 26-year-old’s growth at international and club level, but on Sunday, the niceties will be spared.
It’s set to be a showdown in the middle of the park between two of the world’s best in the role, with Luis de la Fuente surely planning to tune in.
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