**Rio Ferdinand believes Rodri’s departure from Manchester City would be music to the ears of Arsenal.**
The former Manchester United captain claims that the Gunners may have not won the title last season if the midfielder had been fit for the whole season, and it would be “the best signing of the summer” for Mikel Arteta’s side if he returns to Spain:
“City have to be very, very careful here or they can become a mediocre team that struggles to finish sixth or seventh even with Erling Haaland because Rodri is the machine. He’s the engine in that midfield.”
“It would be the best signing of the summer for Arsenal if Rodri goes to Barcelona or Real Madrid.”
Others agree that Arsenal will benefit from Rodri’s sale
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_Sky Sports_ pundit Jamie Carragher has made City favourites to win the league this season, despite the departure of manager Pep Guardiola.
However, like Ferdinand, he stated that Rodri’s departure from the Etihad Stadium would seriously damage their chances of finishing top of the table.
Both pundits seem to agree that Arsenal would be the major beneficiaries if the Spanish international makes the switch to Barcelona.
What are the odds of Arsenal winning the title?
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Bookmakers have Arteta’s men as favourites to [**retain their crown**](https://goonernews.com/blog/arsenal-news-lee-dixon-top-five-prediction/), with most pricing them at 6/4.
City are deemed to be their most likely challengers, with betting firms have given odds between 11/4 and 3/1 for Enzo Maresca’s team to finish top, but those prices could still lengthen if Rodri’s exit is confirmed before the transfer window closes.
Liverpool are third among the other runners and riders, while Chelsea and Manchester United are joint fourth favourites.
Arsenal and City will face off for the first time this season when they play the Community Shield at the Millennium Stadium on Sunday evening.