Rodri Fires Warning to Arsenal as Manchester City Refuse to Surrender Title Race

Rodri insists Manchester City is still in the Premier League title race despite Arsenal taking a six-point lead at the top, issuing a warning to the Gunners.

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has aimed a defiant message at Arsenal after City dropped more points in a damaging 1–1 draw with Chelsea, insisting the title race is far from finished. Despite Arsenal stretching their advantage to six points at the summit, the Rodri title warning makes clear that Pep Guardiola’s side have no intention of backing down.

City’s latest stumble only strengthened Arsenal’s grip on first place, but Rodri urged calm and persistence, stressing that the champions will “keep going and going” in pursuit of the Gunners.

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City looked on course for a crucial win at the Etihad after Tijjani Reijnders fired them ahead in the first half. However, a late Enzo Fernández equaliser rescued a point for Chelsea and compounded a frustrating festive period that has also seen City drop points against Sunderland.

From an Arsenal perspective, the result felt like another small victory. Chelsea, led by caretaker boss Calum McFarlan following Enzo Maresca’s departure, exposed City’s growing vulnerability by capitalising on wasted chances and late-game nerves.

Arsenal now sit six points clear, while City’s inability to turn dominance into goals continues to haunt them.

Rodri Admits Frustration but Refuses to Panic

Speaking after the match, Rodri admitted City only had themselves to blame for letting the win slip — but stopped short of conceding ground to Arsenal.

“It’s frustrating, of course,” Rodri said. “We created enough chances to win three or four nil. This is football — if you don’t take your chances, they draw the game.”

The midfielder stressed that City must learn quickly, adding that the season remains long and unpredictable.

Rodri pointed to a dramatic drop-off after the break, admitting City “forgot how to play” in the second half and handed Chelsea control. Defensive injuries added further disruption, with both centre-backs forced off — a problem Arsenal fans will note City have struggled to solve all season.

Still, Rodri refused to use injuries as an excuse, claiming City have enough quality to cope — a statement that contrasts sharply with recent performances.

Looking ahead, Rodri turned his focus to City’s upcoming clash with Brighton, framing it as a must-win fixture.

“We move on. We have Brighton at home and we have to win,” he said. “This season is going to be long, so we keep going and going.”

While intended as a rallying cry, the words underline the reality: City now chase Arsenal rather than dictate terms — a rare position under Guardiola.

Rodri also reflected on his personal comeback after a lengthy injury spell, describing his return as a “gift” and admitting perspective has shifted.

“What I’ve been through has been terrible,” he said. “Right now, everything is a gift — playing, enjoying football, recovering the smile.”

Meanwhile, Arsenal continue to capitalise ruthlessly, turning City slip-ups into breathing space at the top.

Pundits Admit Arsenal Are in Control — For Now

Former City goalkeeper Shay Given described the last week as “huge” for the title race, pointing directly to Arsenal’s advantage.

“City dropping four points in two games is massive,” Given said. “It’s been a brilliant week for Arsenal.”

Micah Richards attempted to downplay the damage, insisting the race remains open — but even he acknowledged City’s margin for error has shrunk dramatically.

With Arsenal preparing for a heavyweight clash against Liverpool, City must respond immediately or risk watching the gap grow further. Rodri’s warning may sound defiant, but the reality is unavoidable: Arsenal control the title race right now.

City may not be out — but they are no longer in charge.

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