Manchester City midfielder Rodri has asserted that Arsenal lacked the necessary mentality to clinch the Premier League title this season. Despite both teams winning their final matches of the campaign, City secured their fourth consecutive title, finishing two points ahead of Arsenal.
Reflecting on the season’s outcome, Rodri acknowledged Arsenal’s quality but pointed to their approach in the goalless draw against City in March as evidence of their deficiency in mentality required for championship contention.
Speaking to Optus Sport about City’s success, Rodri emphasized the importance of mentality. “To be honest, I think it’s in [the mind]. It’s the mentality,” he stated. “Arsenal, they also deserve [to win the league], they had an incredible season, but I believe the difference lies here [pointing to his head once more].”
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Rodri recalled the match against Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium, noting a lack of ambition from the Gunners. “When they came here and faced us at the Etihad, I sensed it: ‘Ah, these guys, they don’t want to beat us, they just want a draw.’ And that mentality, I don’t think we would approach it the same way,” he remarked. “We seized the opportunity. Ultimately, if you give us one point, we will win the last seven, eight games, even though it’s incredibly challenging. So, I think it boils down to mentality.”
Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta conceded that his team needed to demonstrate greater ambition in the upcoming season to challenge City for the title.
“[City] snatched it from us,” Arteta acknowledged. “It’s the second consecutive season. The only way forward is to show more determination, ambition, courage, and push every limit. That’s the next step.”
Arteta expressed confidence that if Arsenal continues to strive and maintain proximity to the title, eventual success will follow. “When? I cannot say, but if we persist and remain within reach, eventually, it will happen,” he concluded.