Former Manchester United player, Rio Ferdinand, has asserted that Arsenal would not have secured the Premier League title had Manchester City midfielder, Rodri, not sustained an injury.
After a 22-year wait, Arsenal finally lifted the Premier League trophy, finishing first with 85 points, eight points ahead of second-placed Manchester City.
Ferdinand, a former Red Devils star, confidently stated that Manchester City would have overtaken Arsenal for the Premier League title if their key midfielder Rodri had been fit and available throughout the season.
Rodri was absent for 27 matches across all competitions last season. He managed to start only 17 out of the 38 possible Premier League games last season, which posed significant challenges for Pep Guardiola.
Discussing the changes at Manchester City, Ferdinand highlighted Rodri’s influence on the team during his podcast. He also mentioned that Rodri’s potential departure amid interest from Barcelona could exacerbate their difficulties.
He remarked via Metro UK, “Can we just talk about Manchester City please? Not only have they lost Pep Guardiola, but it now appears they are also losing Rodri. That’s two of the most crucial figures at the football club over the past seven or eight years.
“If Rodri had started and played every match last season without injury, Manchester City would have won the Premier League. No disrespect to Arsenal, but if Rodri had played ten more games, Manchester City would have claimed the league.”
He added, “I believe Manchester City faces a significant challenge this year in maintaining their competitive edge as they have over the last eight or nine years.”
With Pep Guardiola’s departure, Manchester City is entering a new era. They have appointed Enzo Maresca as the successor to the legendary Catalan manager; losing Rodri would further complicate their situation.
Conversely, the Gunners appear to be in a robust position. They have already acquired one of the top midfielders in the Premier League, Bruno Guimaraes, and are likely to pursue additional signings to bolster their squad this summer.