Manchester City star Rodri has named an Arsenal player that has really impressed him this season.
Manchester City take on Arsenal on Sunday in yet another massive match in the Premier League title race.
Pep Guardiola’s side currently trail both league leaders Arsenal and Liverpool by a single point with the table finely poised.
Liverpool can go top before City get underway at the Etihad as they play Brighton in the day’s early kick-off, which would only increase the pressure.
City can maintain a good pace in the three-horse race with a victory, but a defeat would see them slip four points behind with just nine games remaining.
It’s all on the line which makes it even more frustrating that crucial defensive duo Kyle Walker and John Stones are sidelined for the match.
Rodri is going to have a big task on his hands defending a weakened back-line against tough opposition.
The Spaniard has even named one Arsenal player he thinks has been ‘sensational’ this season.
Rodri picks out on Arsenal player for praise ahead of Sunday’s fixture
Speaking to Manchester City’s in-house media ahead of the game, Rodri moved to praise Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice.
He said: “I’m Spanish, he’s English so of course [we have] different cultures and ways of understanding the game.
“Physically, he’s such a strong player and the runs he makes. In terms of position and the things that Mikel [Arteta] and Pep [Guardiola] demand from us is quite the same.
“He’s adapting his physicality and way of playing to that and I’m doing the same. I think we are different players playing the same role.
“He’s been sensational so far this season – it’s not easy to change team and doing the things he’s doing for Arsenal.
“He’s doing great so far.”
Rodri vs Rice could decide the game
City vs Arsenal is set to be a mouthwatering game that could be even more dramatic than the pulse-pounding clash with Liverpool earlier this month.
The stakes are even higher this time and City go into it severely depleted without two of their most important defenders.
There are going to be several key battles throughout the pitch. Erling Haaland vs William Saliba, Bukayo Saka vs Josko Gvardiol, Phil Foden vs everyone.
But the midfield battle will be the most crucial of all and it will be decided between the two sides’ generals, Rice and Rodri.
Who controls the midfield usually controls more of the ball and both players will be vital in winning it and keeping it.
Whoever comes out on top might well win the game for their team.