While the summer transfer might have only slammed shut a matter of weeks ago, Manchester City should already be planning for January following some devastating injury news last week.
Watching midfield talisman Rodri limp off in the first-half during City’s 2-2 stalemate against Arsenal on September 22nd, Pep Guardiola’s men are now set to be without the Spanish international for the remainder of the season.
Undergoing surgery on an ACL injury, the 28-year-old certainly leaves a real void in the heart of City’s midfield.
With many billing the ex-Atletico Madrid star as a potential Ballon d’Or winner this year, we have taken a look at the potential contenders to replace Rodri during the January transfer window.
Martin Zubimendi – Real Sociedad
While it might have appeared almost certain over the summer that Martin Zubimendi would be heading to Liverpool, the 25-year-old eventually stayed put at Real Sociedad following what was a shock rebuff of Arne Slot’s side.
However, with the Basque-based outfit failing to find any kind of stability since opening up the new campaign, it has been suggested that Zubimendi is already regretting his decision in turning down a Premier League switch over the summer.
Although it might have been reported that Liverpool have made it clear that they are not looking to revive their interest when the January transfer window gets underway, it has been suggested that Guardiola remains a huge admirer of the 12-cap Spanish international.
Featuring for La Roja as they were crowned European champions back in July, Zubimendi appears to be high on Guardiola’s January wishlist and City are interested in activating €60million release clause.
Playing the whole 90 minutes in each of Sociedad’s first nine appearances across all competitions this season, the Reale Arena hierarchy have accepted that it would be hard to stop their midfield talisman rejecting another move to England’s elite.
Bruno Guimaraes –…
Author : Tom Dunstan
Publish date : 2024-09-30 22:55:47
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The post Who are the European superstars that could fill the Rodri void at Manchester City? first appeared on Foot & Soccer.
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Author : footsoccer
Publish date : 2024-10-01 00:43:51
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