Rodri Hernandez Feels Arsenal Lost Out on Premier League 2023–24 Title Due to Its ‘Mentality’
Arsenal traveled to the Etihad on March 31 in what many expected to be the title decider between the two. The Gunners who have built an identity of being a possession based team and playing free flowing football were not able to play the same way due to Man City’s ruthlessness on the counter and in front of the goal.
After Manchester City's historic achievement of winning four consecutive Premier League trophies, it was their midfield general Rodri Hernandez, who spoke on the difference between City and their title rivals Arsenal. The Cityzens held 73% of possession for the game whereas Arsenal spent their time in a low block which is what Rodri believed to be the difference maker between the two sides. Premier League 2023–24: Pep Guardiola’s Emotional Reply to Jurgen Klopp’s Final Message, Says ‘I Will Miss Him a Lot’.
“To be honest it’s about the mentality. There are great players all over the leagues, all over the clubs, Arsenal also, they did an unbelievable season but I think the difference was in here. When they faced us at the Etihad, I saw them. Ah, these guys, they don’t want to beat us, they just want to draw. And that mentality, we wouldn’t do it the same way,” said an ecstatic Rodri to Optus Sport.
Arsenal traveled to the Etihad on March 31 in what many expected to be the title decider between the two. The Gunners who have built an identity of being a possession based team and playing free flowing football were not able to play the same way due to Man City’s ruthlessness on the counter and in front of the goal.
Arsenal still had a one point lead on City following that game and it was not until Aston Villa became the only team to beat Arsenal in 2024 that led to Manchester City regaining their lead.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 20, 2024 01:21 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).