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Manchester City are exploring options to replace Rodri after the Spanish midfielder was ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury, according to a TEAMtalk report.
Despite the injury to Rodri, a key player in Pep Guardiola’s system, there is reportedly "no panic" at the Etihad currently. Still, the EPL powerhouse are keen to bolster their midfield in the January transfer window. The Premier League champions have drawn up a shortlist of four potential replacements, with Liverpool and Arsenal target Martin Zubimendi at the top.
Zubimendi, a standout midfielder at Real Sociedad, has drawn interest from several top European clubs. Liverpool had nearly acquired his signature in the summer after meeting his €60 million release clause, but the midfielder opted to stay in Spain. Man City are now weighing a January move for the 25-year-old, who is seen as a natural fit to fill Rodri’s void.
Another name on City's radar is Inter Milan star Nicolo Barella. The Italian international, who signed a long-term contract extension in the summer, could prove a more expensive option, with Inter valuing him at £70 million. However, the report suggests Manchester City might wait until the summer to make a serious bid.
Atalanta’s Ederson and Crystal Palace’s rising star Adam Wharton have also caught the club’s attention. Wharton’s defensive stats have impressed Guardiola’s side, but Palace are unlikely to sell him before next summer.
"Maybe it will be less than we expect" - Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola provides update on Rodri's long-term injury
Rodri's injury has emerged as the primary concern at Manchester City after their 2-2 draw against Arsenal. According to ESPN journalist Moises Llorens, the midfielder has suffered an ACL injury that could rule him out for the remainder of the season. The 28-year-old limped off against Arsenal, initially downplaying concerns, but further examination has painted a graver picture.
Speaking to HaytersTV (via Manchester City News), manager Pep Guardiola explained:
“Will be out for a long time, a while. But there are some opinions that maybe it will be less than we expect but unfortunately, he was injured and right, still I cannot tell you because we are waiting on the last phone calls with him and the doctors to know exactly what he definitely has and the type of surgery that he has to get.”
The injury is a major blow for the Premier League champions, with Rodri a vital figure in Guardiola's midfield. As mentioned earlier, his absence could force Manchester City to reassess their plans for the season, with potential midfield reinforcements being considered in the January transfer window.
