Jurgen Klopp is proving Rodri right over what Man City star 'knows' about Liverpool

Rodri believes Manchester City have a big challenge ahead to retain the Premier League title - with Liverpool having 'come back' to push Pep Guardiola's side all the way.

City are battling to win their fourth straight title having also landed a treble last season. The Reds were the last side to wrestle the championship from Pep Guardiola's grasp, finishing 18 points ahead of City in 2020.

Rodri told the Mirror: "Since I arrived, every year has been tougher! I think this year we have two more contenders for the title or even three if you want to add (Aston) Villa. It's even harder when you have more opponents.

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"I don't expect it will be decided in one month's time. I think it will go to the last game. But we will be ready for that."

The Spain midfielder added: "I knew Liverpool would come back, Liverpool with (Jurgen) Klopp and the players they had all these years. Of course it was a new cycle for them, all those players leaving but you see the way they lay. It's the same. They changed the players but they play the same and I expect them to be there."

On Arsenal, the 27-year-old commented: "We all see what Arsenal are able to do. They beat Liverpool in a very good way. It's a team that last year they almost did everything perfect. Almost. This year they are doing great. So they will be there as well."

And about Aston Villa and Tottenham, Rodri said: "Villa are showing a big step forward, a lot of them are doing great. Tottenham also, a big upgrade in the way they are performing."

Rodri has enjoyed a fantastic year, not losing a single game for club or