Rodri Blames Mikel Arteta & Arsenal’s ‘Mentality’ for Bottling Yet Another Premier League Title Challenge- “They Don’t Want to Beat Us, Just Want to Draw”

Another season, the same old story for Arsenal. Having missed out on the Premier League title last year, the Gunners again fell short of outfoxing Manchester City to end their 21-year exile from lifting the silverware, as they saw their arch-rivals clinch their fourth consecutive title instead. While one can blame their luck, Manchester City star Rodri has instead shirked the responsibility onto Mikel Arteta and Co.

After jumping on the podium with the prestigious title, the Spanish midfielder was taken aside for a brief interview by Optus Sport reporter Mark Schwarzer. When asked about City’s secret formula to be at such a level, Rodri said, “To be honest, It’s in here [pointing at his brain]. It’s the mentality. Great players are all over the leagues, clubs; Arsenal also had an unbelievable season but the difference was in [mentality].” 

The 27-year-old then took a dig at Arsenal’s lack of optimism during their latest encounter against City: “When they came to face us in Etihad, I saw them, ‘They don’t want to beat us, they just want to draw.’ That mentality, I think, we wouldn’t do it the same way and we catch it.” The holding midfielder then praised his side’s eagerness that they displayed to win the title. He insisted that even after City salvages a point, that won’t affect their mentality to pursue greatness in the next games.  

Per the former Atletico Madrid man, had Arsenal shown a little more optimism and zeal throughout the campaign, then certainly things would have been different for them. However, Rodri’s manager Pep Guardiola believes their success came due to Arsenal. 

Rodri questioning Arsenal’s mentality contradicts the ‘message’ Pep Guardiola received from Mikel Arteta and Co. 

While Rodri noted that Arsenal lacked mentality, Pep Guardiola has instead praised his arch-rivals for raising the bar. Speaking to Sky Sports Premier League, the Spaniard tactician said, “It was nice. The first words are for Arsenal – Liverpool as well but especially Arsenal to bring us [up], to push another level.” Guardiola further acclaimed the Londoner’s ardency to lock horns with them for two consecutive seasons. 

In fact, the City boss has sent a warning on behalf of Arsenal. “We get the message, so I know [Arsenal] will be there for many years. Young manager, big talent and a young squad, a young team – they sent us a message [that] we have to be careful for the next year,” concluded the ex-Barcelona manager. It looks like Pep Guardiola has faith in this Arsenal side. Perhaps next season, they may finally get their hands on the title.