Kyle Walker and Rodri Engaged in a Heated Argument During Manchester City vs Liverpool Match, Manuel Akanji Reveals

Published 03/29/2024, 4:01 AM EDT

Soccer is often hailed as a beautiful game, yet its demands are unforgiving. Victory is no joke, as an unwavering fighting spirit is required from every player on the field. However, this passion can sometimes lead to conflict among teammates. In a recent incident, Manuel Akanji disclosed a heated argument between Kyle Walker and Rodri during Manchester City’s showdown against Liverpool, stating, “It happens sometimes, but that’s normal.”

The revelation came after the former Borussia Dortmund player was asked whether intense match situations ever led to players arguing with each other. Speaking with GQ, he said, “You need to have it [fights]. The most important thing is that you talk about it after, and the next day you can move on. That’s what we have: we have a good changing room. We all get along really well.”

Akanji then spoke about the fight that transpired during the fiesty 1-1 draw between City and the Reds. John Stones’ early header to give City a lead was canceled out by Alexis Mac Allister’s penalty. “In the game against Liverpool, Kyle [Walker] and Rodri had an argument, but then shortly after, Rodri gave the thumbs up, they talked in the changing room, and then it was done. It didn’t affect the rest of the game. That’s what you need,” added the Swiss defender. Notably, that wasn’t the only matter of the discussion around the City-Liverpool clash.

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Before the match, Trent Alexander-Arnold ignited a stir by claiming that Liverpool’s silverware success meant more than the Sky Blues achieving any triumph. Meanwhile, small fights while facing Liverpool were bound to happen, given how well Jurgen Klopp and Co. did against City.

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Liverpool’s ‘aggressive’ plan strained Manchester City, indirectly responsible for Kyle Walker and Rodri’s altercation

Manuel Akanji was also asked how the club adapted its style to deal with Liverpool putting them under a lot of pressure, which Manchester City doesn’t face on a daily basis. Interestingly, the defender replied, “We had to change a little. Liverpool’s pressing was really good. They were aggressive and played well with the ball.” Akanji praised his side’s ability to adjust the game according to the opposition.

City is usually known for its offensive game. Seeing them play defensively is not usual. Even Kyle Walker, as a right-back, contributes significantly to the team’s attacking play. Perhaps Jurgen Klopp’s team employed their ‘Gegenpressing‘ tactic to such an extent that it created pressure, resulting in the equalizer in the second half. In the end, it was a fiery affair between the two EPL giants!

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Written by:

Abhishek Mishra is a senior Soccer Writer at EssentiallySports. His early exposure to playing soccer earned him many accolades at college divisions, making him a sports enthusiast. While closely following daily updates for over a decade, Abhishek is well-versed in European soccer and now the MLS, as well.

Edited by:

Daniel D'Cruz

Kyle Walker and Rodri Engaged in a Heated Argument During Manchester City vs Liverpool Match, Manuel Akanji Reveals

Liverpool’s ‘aggressive’ plan strained Manchester City, indirectly responsible for Kyle Walker and Rodri’s altercation

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