Rodri stays defiant on Man City’s dwindling title chances: ‘We’re still alive’ | OneFootball

Rodri has warned both Real Madrid and Arsenal that Manchester City's season is far from over.

City slipped nine points off the Premier League title pace after Saturday's 1-1 draw at lowly West Ham, and are 3-0 down following the first leg of their Champions League tie in Madrid.

Ahead of Tuesday's second leg, Spanish midfielder Rodri insisted: "We have to be more clinical. We have to take a step forward in that sense.

"I think we have the rest of it: the football, the ability to create chances. It's true that the other day we couldn't do it but we have to lift the team, because Tuesday is an important game, and above all the team believes."

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Man City have slipped nine points off the Premier League title pace (Action Images via Reuters)

As for the Premier League, City still have a game in hand on the Gunners, who also have to visit the Etihad Stadium next month.

"We're still alive in everything," added Rodri. "In the end they still have to come to our place. We have a game in hand as well. So, well, things happen in football.

"It's true, I'm not going to deny that it's difficult. But we're going to be there until the end. That's basically the team's mentality."

Pep Guardiola has told his players if they do not feel they can overturn the 3-0 deficit on Tuesday night, they should stay at home.

"If they don't believe, it's a problem. They are adults. They have good salaries," said the City boss. “If they don't believe in that in the Champions League, go home, stay home. We have to try. What do we have to lose?

"Madrid never came back in history? I don't know how many - 50 Champions League games, they never came back from 3-0? Of course, it's a tough result. But we have to try, for respect for the people, for fans, for our job, you know?

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Pep Guardiola watched from the stands as he served a touchline ban (Bradley Collyer/PA) (PA Wire)

"And after, eight games are left, we have to accept it and finish the season the better. The best possible, because still we have tomorrow, we have the Premier League, we have the FA Cup. We have the other one (Carabao Cup final). Improve, improve.

"As much you improve quicker, it will be better for the present and for the future, for next season. This is what you have to do. I like my team, still. I know for (some) people today modern football is not... but I still like it.

"So, until the end, we'll continue. And next season, we'll be back."