Manchester City star Rodri picks Arsenal duo as his current favorite midfielders
Rodri has spoken highly of Arsenal duo Declan Rice and Jorginho. Among the frontrunners for this year's Ballon d'Or, the Spanish midfielder is one of the finest in his position in the world right now.
Rice, meanwhile, joined the Gunners in the summer of 2023 and immediately established himself as a key figure at the Emirates. Last season, the Englishman appeared 51 times across competitions, registering seven goals and 10 assists.
Jorginho hasn't been a first-team regular for Arsenal but remains a vital part of Mikel Arteta's plans. The north London side opted to tie him down to a new deal in May this year, which hints at the player having a role to play under Arteta.
Speaking to ESPN, Rodri picked the Gunners duo as his two favorite midfielders.
"If you ask me names, I think I would not be fair because I will leave some ones that deserve it. But I don’t know… let’s say, right now, Declan [Rice] I like a lot, what he does. Even though it’s not the same role I do. I love Jorginho, when he was in the best shape," Rodri said.
The 28-year-old also named Sergio Busquets, Casemiro, and Xabi Alonso as players he admires.
"In the past, for example, I would say [Sergio] Busquets, Casemiro, Xabi Alonso, these kinds of players that can manage the game," Rodri added.
While Alonso has retired, Busquets and Casemiro are in the twilight of their careers. The former Barcelona man currently plies his trade with Inter Miami, while the Brazilian is in Manchester United's books.
Is Rodri one of the biggest threats to Arsenal's Premier League chase?
Arsenal finished second behind Manchester City in the Premier League in the past two seasons, and Mikel Arteta is determined to go all the way this year. The Spanish manager has an enviable ensemble at his disposal and is desperate to break City's stranglehold in the league.
The Gunners were a whisker away from winning the coveted title last campaign. They ultimately lost out on the trophy on the final day of the season, finishing two points behind Pep Guardiola's side.
The north London club have strengthened their squad over the summer and remain desperate to bring the Premier League trophy back to the Emirates this season. However, Rodri is likely to be one of the biggest threats to their plans.
The Spanish midfielder is one of the first names on Guardiola's team sheet and is the one that keeps City ticking. If Arsenal are to win the league, they may need the 28-year-old to slow down.