Manchester City star Rodri has stated that Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United have what it takes to challenge Pep Guardiola’s side in the 2022/23 Premier League season.
In the matchday programme for the Community Shield, which Liverpool eventually won, Rodri spoke about the teams he believes can challenge City for the Premier League title,
The Manchester City maestro said, “Not just Liverpool, but Chelsea, Tottenham, Arsenal, [Manchester] United. We just have to focus on ourselves as always, focus on each game and we will see if we can make it three Premier League titles in a row. They’re a top team and have great players in every position, like us.”
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The Spanish midfielder was then asked specifically about his opinion on Liverpool’s new signings in the summer transfer window, but went onto mention Ten Hag's business, along others, in the same breath.
“Like all top teams they try to strengthen their side every season. Chelsea, Arsenal, Tottenham, Manchester United and many other teams have signed top players this summer.”
Old Trafford has saw three new signings so far, with Tyrell Malacia, Lisandro Martinez and Christian Eriksen joining the squad.
However, supporters would suggest that United need more ahead of the tough league campaign. City have signed Erling Haaland and Kalvin Philips so far.
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“As we always say, we will always just focus on ourselves and try to be the best we can be." Rodri added. "I don't worry about that too much. I always trust our club to make the best signings to improve the team and I think they've done that again this season.
“We will always be ready. Every game, every moment is so important and can be the difference. We will always try to show our best performances in every single competition that we're in and we will fight until the end.”
Liverpool defeated Manchester City 3-1 in the Community Shield on July 30, claiming early bragging rights in the season.
Mohamed Salah scored and assisted in the game while Darwin Nunez gained all the plaudits for scoring his first official goal for Liverpool.
Julian Alvarez found the back of the net on his debut despite a pedestrian performance throughout the 90 minutes.
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In another interview last week, Rodri gave his opinion on who he thinks is the most important part of Manchester City and he did not choose a player.
Instead, Rodri chose the club’s director of football Txiki Begiristain.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Rodri said, “It’s funny because I renewed for the beginning of the season and we were talking about his role and the way he works.
“I think he’s the most important part of the club right now. He’s the guy who says to the players who comes, who goes and the one who builds the teams.
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"It’s not easy. It’s tricky. You have to be clever, speak languages, you have to be smart, a good negotiator and many things that, of course, are important.”, he concluded.
Featured Image Credit: AlamyTopics: Manchester United, Manchester City, Rodri, Erik Ten Hag, Lisandro Martinez, Christian Eriksen, Football, Premier League