Asked which player he would pick between Casemiro and Rodri, Rio Ferdinand told on BT Sport: "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."
Speaking about Rodri ahead of Man City's 4-1 win over Liverpool, he 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."
Casemiro has impressed since moving to Man United last summer. The Brazilian has proven to be one of the leaders in Ten Hag's team.
Rodri, on his part, has been consistent in the Premier League since arriving at the Etihad in 2019. The 26-year-old midfielder has made 41 appearances this season, registering two goals and six assists.
