Rio Ferdinand and Lescott lays in each other in Casemiro and Man City's Rodri comparisons

Rio Ferdinand, a former player for Manchester United, engaged Joleon Lescott in discussion about Casemiro's superiority to Rodri.

At the Etihad, City defeated Liverpool 4-1 to put pressure on title-rival Arsenal. However, before the game, Rodri and Casemiro were arguing over who was a superior holding midfielder, according to Lescott and former United center-back Ferdinand.

Casemiro, an international from Brazil, has significantly improved Erik ten Hag's team during his first season in English football. Since moving to City from Atletico Madrid in 2019, Rodri has emerged as one of the Premier League's top midfielders.

Lescott chose the Spaniard, while Ferdinand supported the United player, in the debate over who has impressed fans more. Naturally, Ferdinand rallied to Casemiro's side. The previous United player said: "I would take Casemiro because I think the impact he has had is huge."

"He’s more than a footballer, he’s a leader on that pitch. With the experience he’s got and what he’s won as well, it just elevates him above at this stage. But Rodri is a fantastic footballer.”

Regarding Manchester City's Rodri, Ferdinand added: “When the ball turns over, he’s one of the first people there to slow that transition down or intercept, so other players can get back. He will dictate that."

“But also, third-most carries of any midfielder in Europe shows you he’s not just a one-trick pony, he does difference facets of the game remarkably well.”

Lescott, a two-time Premier League champion with City, asserted Rodri was the better player.He said: “I would [take Rodri over Casemiro]. Casemiro has been impactful for Man Utd, but from a centre-half’s point of view, and what I want them to do, I think he prevents a lot of opportunities for the opposition."

“He recognises the danger so early, so the attacks don’t even start. I would definitely put him ahead of Casemiro – it’s not just my biased Man City hat on!"

“I think he’s the most adaptable in that role. I think Sean Dyche would sign Rodri. He’s a personality as well, he’s not on social media, I think that goes a long way – he’s low maintenance, but so impactful on the pitch," Lescott argued.

From Manchester Gistlover's research, stats from fmdataba.com shows that Casemiro is a better player in similar position to the Manchester City's star.