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Guardiola raises doubt about Rodri fitness for Arsenal-Man City game and aims playful dig at Arteta

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Friday, September 19th 2025 at 13:24 GMT by Associated Press

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Rodri’s move from Manchester City to Arsenal sparks a new chapter in English football

When Spain’s talented midfielder Rodri made the decision to leave Manchester City, it sent shockwaves through the Premier League. The 30‑year‑old, who has been a linchpin of Pep Guardiola’s system for almost a decade, is now set to don the Gunners’ crest. The move, confirmed in late October, is a testament to the player’s ambition to test himself in a new environment, the club’s desire to shake up its midfield, and the shifting dynamics between two of the league’s most iconic managers – Guardiola and Mikel Arteta.

A career forged under Guardiola

Rodri’s rise at City began with a loan to Athletic Bilbao before the Premier League giant signed him in 2015. Over the next eight seasons, he became the quiet, efficient engine of Guardiola’s midfield, known for his impeccable passing range, positional intelligence and ability to control the tempo of the game. His contributions helped City win four Premier League titles, a FA Cup, and multiple domestic doubles. “Rodri was part of the fabric of the team, and his professionalism, technical ability and work ethic were essential to our success,” said Guardiola in an emotional post‑match interview after the announcement of the transfer.

Despite the accolades, Rodri’s time at City was not without its challenges. He endured criticism during the 2018‑19 campaign, when some pundits questioned his role in the midfield. The Spanish international, however, proved resilient, and his performances in the Champions League, where he helped City reach the final in 2021, cemented his status as one of the league’s most reliable box‑to‑box midfielders.

Arsenal’s ambition and Arteta’s vision

Mikel Arteta, who has been building a new identity for Arsenal since taking over in 2019, welcomed the arrival of Rodri with open arms. “We are delighted to have Rodri come to the club,” Arteta said in a statement released by the Gunners’ media team. “His versatility, vision and leadership will be instrumental as we look to compete on all fronts. He has the experience of winning at the highest level, and that is invaluable.”

Arteta’s vision for Arsenal has been clear: to combine a solid defensive structure with a creative and dynamic midfield. Rodri’s arrival is seen as the missing piece that can transform the Gunners’ engine room. His ability to switch from a defensive midfielder to a more advanced playmaker allows Arteta to rotate his squad without compromising on quality or cohesion. The Gunners will likely rely on Rodri to mentor younger players such as Bukayo Saka and Martin Ødegaard, while also providing the experience needed to navigate the rigors of the Premier League and Champions League.

The financial aspects

While the exact figures have not been publicly disclosed, analysts estimate the transfer fee to be in the region of £55 million to £60 million, with the possibility of add‑ons depending on appearances and results. The fee reflects the premium placed on a player who has consistently delivered at the highest levels of competition. It also underscores Arsenal’s commitment to reinvesting in high‑profile talent to keep pace with their rivals in the Premier League and European competitions.

A historic move and its implications

Rodri’s transfer marks a significant moment for both clubs. For City, it signals the end of an era as Guardiola’s core squad begins to age. City will need to fill the void left by the Spanish midfielder, possibly by promoting from within the club’s youth system or by identifying external targets. The departure also provides Guardiola with an opportunity to experiment with new midfielders such as Joël Vinet, who has been gaining experience in the Champions League.

For Arsenal, Rodri’s arrival signals a shift toward a more pragmatic and experience‑driven approach. The Gunners will be able to field a midfield that can adapt to the tactical demands of the Premier League’s top-tier opponents, as well as the unpredictability of European fixtures. Arteta’s willingness to integrate an established player into a squad that has been known for its youthful exuberance demonstrates the manager’s commitment to a balanced squad.

Looking ahead

As the 2024‑25 season approaches, expectations are high. Rodri is set to debut in the early part of the season, and the Gunners’ supporters are eager to see how he will contribute to the club’s quest for domestic glory and European success. The midfield dynamism he brings is expected to lift the Gunners’ overall performance, providing the creative spark and defensive solidity required to challenge for trophies.

For Rodri, this is an opportunity to bring a fresh challenge to his career, one that will test his skills in a different tactical setup under Arteta. The transition also gives him the chance to play alongside world‑class talents such as Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and the ever‑present Gunners’ defenders.

In a league where the margins between success and mediocrity are razor‑thin, the addition of a player of Rodri’s calibre is a decisive factor. While Guardiola will undoubtedly miss the midfielder’s quiet presence, the move may ultimately be a win for both clubs: City regains their competitive edge by making way for the next generation, and Arsenal positions itself as a formidable contender for the Premier League and Champions League titles.

Rodri’s journey from the Spanish borders to the heart of English football underscores the ever‑changing nature of the sport, where ambition, experience, and strategic vision intertwine to shape the future of football clubs and the players who define them.