BREAKING: Rodri Confirms £100m Teammate Set to Join Arsenal Despite His Pleas
Manchester City star Rodri has admitted he tried everything to convince his international teammate to join him at the Etihad — but the midfielder has already made up his mind to sign for Arsenal in a record-breaking £100m deal this January.
Speaking after the latest Ballon d’Or ceremony, Rodri confessed his frustration, warning that a move to Arsenal could hinder his friend’s chances of ever winning football’s most prestigious individual prize.
“I did my best to bring him to City, but his mind is made up,” Rodri said. “I feel sorry for his career because I don’t believe he can ever win the Ballon d’Or at Arsenal. If he came to us, the story would be different.”
Rodri’s Admiration for Fabian Ruiz
While Rodri avoided naming the player directly, reports strongly indicate that he was referring to Napoli and Spain midfielder Fabian Ruiz — a long-time international colleague and close friend.
The pair have built a strong partnership in the Spanish national team, with Rodri openly praising Ruiz’s ability to control midfield battles and adapt to different tactical roles.
Rodri has often described Ruiz as “a complete midfielder with vision, composure, and creativity”, qualities that would strengthen any top club in Europe. But the thought of facing him in an Arsenal shirt leaves Rodri uneasy.
“It’s always hard to play against friends, especially someone I respect so much,” Rodri added. “He brings a lot of quality, and having him at a rival club would be tough.”
Arsenal’s Ambition Under Arteta
Arsenal have been making waves under Mikel Arteta, with the club once again competing at the very top of the Premier League. Signing Ruiz would mark a statement of intent, adding world-class depth to a midfield already brimming with talent.
For the Gunners, Ruiz’s arrival could be the missing piece in their quest to finally dethrone Manchester City and reclaim Premier League glory. His playmaking ability, creativity, and composure would give Arsenal another weapon in high-stakes games.
Why This Transfer Matters
If completed, this deal won’t just affect Arsenal — it could also reshape the dynamics of the Premier League midfield battle. Ruiz’s move would put him directly against Rodri on a weekly basis, a fascinating subplot given their bond with the Spanish national team.
It also raises bigger questions:
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Can Arsenal provide the platform for Ruiz to reach Ballon d’Or level?
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Or will Rodri’s warning prove prophetic, with City’s dominance continuing under Pep Guardiola?
All Eyes on January
With the transfer window fast approaching, speculation surrounding Fabian Ruiz’s future is set to intensify. For Arsenal fans, the excitement of landing a £100m international star is sky-high. For Rodri, however, the move comes with mixed emotions — pride in his teammate’s progress, but concern it could boost a direct rival.
One thing is certain: if Ruiz joins Arsenal in January, the Premier League title race will become even more dramatic.