It is now beginning to become apparent that Manchester City will aim to bring in a midfielder in January to cover the loss of Rodri. Based on recent reports that appears to be a high priority for the world champions. Now City have been linked with Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi. The perfect replacement for Rodri doesn’t exist. But Zubimendi may be the most readymade player available to step into Rodri’s role.
Spanish publication Relevo has reported that Manchester City are ‘ready to do anything’ to sign the midfielder. Furthermore, Relevo reports that the world champions see Zubimendi as the perfect fit for their squad. It is also included in Relevo’s report that Real Sociedad wouldn’t want to lose their star midfielder in January. But despite this, it is reported that this fact won’t stop Manchester City from attempting to sign Zubimendi.
The perfect replacement for Rodri doesn’t exist but Zubimendi may be as close to it as City could find.
For now, Manchester City have to power ahead until January with the midfielders they have to cover Rodri’s loss. City’s midfield, consisting of Rico Lewis, Mateo Kovacic and Ilkay Gundogan, has so far done an admirable job in Rodri’s absence. There is no doubt that they can continue to do so until the January transfer window opens. But it does look increasingly likely that City will move for a midfielder in January. If they are looking for a player to cover Rodri’s loss and compliment his play in the future then Martin Zubimendi may be it.
Zubimendi thrives in the heart of midfield for both Real Sociedad and Spain. Playing in a similar role to that of Rodri he is cool, calm and collected in possession. He often does the hard work so Spain and Real Sociedad’s attacking players can shine. He is also strong defensively so if Manchester City need a player to sit deep in midfield Zubimendi is more than capable. The Spanish midfielder looks well suited for a role in Pep Guardiola’s squad.
It is expected that a host of midfielders will be linked with potential moves to the world champions in the coming months. But of all them Martin Zubimendi looks to be the one who immediately fill Rodri’s shoes. Time will tell City do move for the Spanish international.