"Title race is over" — Rodri Reveals Feeling As Arsenal Goes 9 Points Clear

Rodri has admitted that Manchester City face a difficult task in both the Premier League title race and the UEFA Champions League, but the Spanish midfielder insists the team will continue fighting until the very end of the season.

The City midfielder spoke honestly after a frustrating period for the club, acknowledging that the gap at the top of the Premier League could be too big to close. However, he made it clear that the players are not ready to give up hope yet.

“Maybe yes, maybe no,” Rodri said when asked if the title race could already be over. “We’re not going to drop hands. We’re going to keep fighting.”

Manchester City have built a reputation in recent years for their relentless consistency under manager Pep Guardiola. The club has won multiple league titles during Guardiola’s time in charge and has often produced strong late-season runs to secure the trophy.

But this season the situation looks more complicated.

City are currently chasing Arsenal, who hold a seven-point lead at the top of the table. With the season entering its decisive stage, every dropped point becomes more damaging.

Rodri understands the challenge that lies ahead. The midfielder, who has played a key role in City’s success over the past few years, knows exactly how demanding it is to win the Premier League.

“We know it’s going to be difficult because we have this experience of what you need to win,” he explain via Man City official Website. “I think the distance is too far, but we’re going to fight until the end.”

The 29-year-old stressed that the players must approach the remainder of the campaign with the right mindset.

“Now is a moment of no regrets,” he said.

Rodri’s comments reflect a mixture of disappointment and determination. The Spanish international admitted he felt frustrated with recent results but also proud of the effort shown by his teammates.

“I’m disappointed, but at the same time I’m proud,” Rodri said. “We tried everything.”

However, he also identified one major issue that has affected City in key matches: finishing their chances.

“At this level, it’s not enough,” he admitted. “You have to put the ball in the net. It’s what we’re missing.”

City are usually known for their attacking power. Under Guardiola, the team has often been among the highest-scoring sides in England and Europe. Players such as Erling Haaland, Kevin De Bruyne and Phil Foden have regularly produced goals and assists that decide important matches.

But even the best attacking teams can go through difficult spells in front of goal, and Rodri believes that has been a key factor behind some disappointing results this season.

Despite those struggles, the midfielder insisted that there is no reason for the squad to lose confidence.

“There’s no point in dropping heads,” he said. “It’s a moment to recover the mentality and go again.”

City still have several important objectives to fight for during the remainder of the campaign, including their European ambitions.

Their biggest immediate challenge is the second leg of their Champions League Round of 16 tie against Real Madrid. After suffering a heavy defeat in the first leg at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Guardiola’s team must produce a remarkable comeback at the Etihad Stadium if they want to reach the quarter-finals.

Overturning a large deficit against a team with Real Madrid’s experience in European competition is one of the toughest challenges in football. The Spanish giants have built a long history of dramatic Champions League nights and know how to manage difficult situations.

But Rodri believes City still have a chance if they approach the game with belief and energy.

“I call all the people to believe,” he said while sending a message directly to supporters. “Always support the team in every moment.”

The midfielder highlighted how important the atmosphere at the Etihad could be when Real Madrid arrive for the decisive match.

“I really believe,” Rodri added. “And when I really believe, trust me, we can do it.”

City have produced several memorable European performances at home in recent seasons. The Etihad has often been a difficult place for visiting teams, particularly when the crowd becomes fully involved in the match.

Rodri hopes that the fans can once again play a major role in helping the team push for a comeback.

“Let’s make our stadium a difficult place,” he urged. “If they want to go through, at least they suffer.”

His words reflect the spirit that Guardiola has tried to build within the squad since arriving at the club. Manchester City have developed a reputation for playing attractive football while maintaining strong belief even in difficult situations.

Rodri himself has become one of the most important figures in that system. The defensive midfielder is often described as the engine of Guardiola’s team, providing balance between attack and defence.

His importance was clearly shown last season, when his performances helped City win the Champions League for the first time in the club’s history. Rodri even scored the winning goal in the final against Inter Milan, cementing his place as one of the team’s most influential players.

Now he hopes to inspire another memorable moment.

For Manchester City, the coming weeks could define the entire season. The Premier League title race remains alive, even if the odds appear challenging, while the Champions League presents a huge opportunity for redemption.