Rodri surprisingly names Arsenal star as one of his favourites

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has called Premier League rivals Declan Rice one of the best players in his position in the country.

After an impeccable start to their new Premier League campaign, the Gunners suffered a major and unexpected setback against Brighton just before the international break.

Kai Havertz gave Mikel Arteta the lead in the first half with a fine pass over the advancing goalkeeper and the game changed completely just after half-time.

After Rice kicked the ball away, thereby preventing a restart in the referee’s eyes, he was shown a second yellow card, meaning Arsenal had to continue with 10 men with a full half remaining.

Although his actions likely cost his team three points, the England midfielder has made a strong start to the season after a summer in which he was regularly criticised for his performances for the England national team.

Surprisingly, the Arsenal star’s most recent kudos came from Premier League rivals Rodri, who was asked who his favourite midfielders are.

“I like Declan Rice!”

Rodri chooses his favorite midfielders 💪 photo.twitter.com/1XqVW7oiR9

— ESPN UK (@ESPNUK) September 13, 2024

“If you asked me names, I wouldn’t think it was fair because I’ll name a few that deserve it,” he said in an interview with ESPN.

“But I don’t know… let’s say, right now, Declan (Rice), I really like what he’s doing. Even though it’s not the same role that I’m doing.”

Unfortunately for Arsenal, the England star will miss the crucial match away at Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday afternoon.

In addition to Rice, captain Martin Odegaard will also miss the match after sustaining an ankle injury during an international match with Norway.

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