Rodri shares his perspective on celebrating shirtless in front of Arsenal fans and how it felt to taunt them

In a recent interview, Manchester City midfielder Rodri discussed his infamous shirtless celebration in front of Arsenal fans from last season. With Arsenal set to visit the Etihad Stadium next Wednesday, many are predicting that the match will play a crucial role in determining the outcome of this season's Premier League title race.

As of now, the Gunners are at the top of the league table, but their lead is only four points ahead of Pep Guardiola's Manchester City, who have a game in hand.

In recent times, matches between Arsenal and City have been strongly contested, although the upcoming high-stakes encounter holds particular importance.

Certainly, in a match from the previous season, City secured a narrow 2-1 victory over the Gunners, thanks to a last-minute goal from Rodri.

After securing the three points for his team, the City midfielder ran towards the Arsenal supporters, tore off his shirt and slid on his knees in celebration. He then pumped his fists in the air and cheered, much to the frustration of the angry Arsenal fans.

Rodri opens up on celebration

Rodri acknowledged that while he found his tense relationship with opposing fans amusing, he also isn't hesitant to display his enthusiasm on the field.

Regarding his game-winning goal against Arsenal last season, the 26-year-old commented through an interview with the Manchester Evening News:"On the pitch sometimes you have to change the mentality. I’m a winner and sometimes when you want to win and if they’re trying to do something you have to do also do that.

"This is part of football but players understand that what happens on the pitch stays on the pitch and this is the good thing. If you asked the City fans they would say the same about Liverpool players or United players.

"It’s good for football, that rivalry. Of course, there are times, because football is very euphoric when you don’t think much but I always try to respect the opponents. I never do these things to disrespect.

"I think I’m a very polite guy. I don’t show much of these kinds of things but sometimes things happen."