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Manchester City have identified Serie A star Samuele Ricci as a replacement for Rodri, as per reports. The Torino midfielder is reportedly rated at £30 million, making him a viable alternative, following Rodri's injury.
The Spaniard has suffered an injury to his anterior cruciate ligament, which will keep him out for the entire season. With Rodri being an important part of how City play, the English giants have an urgent need to fill his role in the January transfer window.
This has seen them turn towards Italy, where 23-year-old Ricci has shown sparkling form. The midfielder has been important for Torino his season, starting in all their five Serie A games and completing four. His presence has been important, helping the Italian side win three games, draw two, and sit on top of the standings.
Ricci has also impressed for the Italy national team, helping them beat France and Israel in the UEFA Nations League. His quality cannot be ignored, which has seen him linked to a move to a bigger club in Manchester City.
The Cityzens were reportedly making plans to move for a deep-lying midfielder like him in the summer of 2025. However, with Rodri's injury, a January move looks to be in the works. According to The Guardian, Samuele Ricci isn't just seen as a temporary replacement for their Spanish midfield maestro, but as a long-term option.
Time will tell if he, indeed, makes the switch to England in the coming months. His focus, currently, will be on Torino's upcoming match against Lazio on September 29.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola confirms Rodri's season-ending injury
While there had been rumors that Rodri's injury would spell the end of the season for the 28-year-old, Pep Guardiola has confirmed them. The Spanish midfielder had to leave the pitch after colliding with Thomas Partey early on in their Premier League clash against Arsenal on September 22.
Pep Guardiola has now revealed that Rodri will not partake in this season, as he works on a return to fitness. During his press conference ahead of Manchester City's clash with Newcastle, the manager said (via Sky Sports):
"Next season he will be here. This season is over [for him]. It is what it is. Unfortunately, we got the worst [news] but it is what it is at this level. Sometimes, unfortunately, it happens. We are just there to support him and [help him make a] good recovery, step by step, and move forward."
While Rodri focuses on getting better and returning to full fitness for next season, Manchester City will look to ensure they can maintain their top form in his absence.
