Man United legend Rio Ferdinand explains why Casemiro is 'better' than Man City ace Rodri

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has admitted he would take Casemiro over Manchester City star Rodri due to his experience and trophy success.

Casemiro and Rodri have both received widespread praise this season, with the holding midfielders impressing for United and City respectively. However, the question of who has impressed more has divided former players, supporters and pundits.

United signed Brazilian ace Casemiro from Real Madrid last summer and the 31-year-old quickly asserted himself as one of Erik ten Hag's most important players. The former Los Blancos man has made 38 appearances for the Reds in all competitions, registering five goals and six assists.

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Asked which player he would pick, Ferdinand - speaking on BT Sport -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."

Speaking about Rodri ahead of 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."

Rodri has been one of the most consistent performers 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.

Joleon Lescott, who won two Premier League