Spain manager Luis de la Fuente believes Arsenal have the second-best midfielder in the world behind Manchester City star Rodri.

Rodri has been one of the most influential players in world football over the past decade, helping Man City win four Premier League titles, four domestic cups and the Champions League.

The 29-year-old won the Ballon d’Or in 2024, becoming the first Manchester City player to win the award and just the second male Spanish player.

De la Fuente believes Rodri is the ‘best in the world’ in his position but insists his Spain teammate Martin Zubimendi is not far behind.

Zubimendi has enjoyed an impressive first season at Arsenal following his move from Real Sociedad, helping the Gunners move nine points clear at the top of the Premier League and challenge in two other competitions.

Mikel Arteta’s £60m summer signing will compete with Rodri for a place in the Spain team at this summer’s World Cup but De la Fuente insists they could ‘play together’ as the European champions look for more silverware.

‘After all the setbacks he went through, Rodri is back at a high level,’ De la Fuente told TVE ahead of Spain’s friendly against Serbia...