Rodri shares honest opinion of Arsenal after Manchester City claim late win at Emirates

Sat 1 January 2022 18:15, UK Updated Sat 1 January 2022 19:57, UK

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has given his verdict on Arsenal following their New Year’s Day clash at the Emirates.

The Gunners were impressive against Pep Guardiola’s side in North London and led 1-0 at half-time.

Bukayo Saka opened the scoring for Arsenal in the 31st minute, rifling home from Kieran Tierney’s cross.

Indeed, the Gunners could’ve been in front earlier had they been awarded a penalty after 10 minutes.

However, Arsenal self-destructed towards the hour mark.

Granit Xhaka brought Bernardo Silva down in the area, which eventually led to a City penalty.

Riyad Mahrez converted from 12 yards on 57 minutes to put the visitors level.

Just two minutes later, Stuart Atwell sent Gabriel Magalhaes off for a second yellow card.

The first was for trying to scuff up the penalty spot, and the second was for a foul on Gabriel Jesus.

City pushed for a winner and broke Arsenal’s resistance in stoppage time.

Rodri found space in the box and calmly slotted past Aaron Ramsdale to steal all three points.

Speaking after the game, the 25-year-old admitted Arsenal were tough opponents and have prospered under Mikel Arteta.

“You always have two or three games like this in a season,” Rodri told BT Sport, via .

“They showed why they are in their position. The way they have grown with Mikel is huge.

“We know they have more rest than us. They have six days to prepare, we have three games in one week and travel.

“It is tough sometimes, when you don’t have the physicality. We have to maybe play a bit more easy.

“We struggled in the first-half but took control in the second a bit more and do more our game.

“They player a great game but we showed our champions’ personality.”

Arsenal remain fourth in the Premier League table despite losing, with 35 points from 20 games.

However, the likes of West Ham, Manchester United and Tottenham are snapping at their heels.

All three are on 31 points and have games in hand on the Gunners.

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