Manchester City are concerned about Rodri’s long-term fitness and may have begun the search for alternatives to the Spanish midfielder.
According to Football Insider, Manchester City could begin their search for alternatives to key star Rodri amid growing concerns over the Spaniard’s fitness. The former Ballon d’Or holder has suffered an injury-ravaged period over the last 18 months, as Pep Guardiola could use the market to seek a viable solution to the midfielder’s absence.
Rodri has been a key part of Manchester City’s success over the years, and his absence has coincided with a drop in the team’s overall form. The former Ballon d’Or holder suffered a Cruciate Ligament tear at the start of last season and missed 53 games for club and country.
This season, he has missed 15 games, as there have been complications with his recovery as well as fresh fitness concerns. Hence, Pep Guardiola has been unable to call upon his key star in important games, as he has tried other options without much success in the process.
Manchester City are now having serious concerns over Rodri’s long-term fitness, and are seeking alternatives in the market. The club could enter the January market to sign a top-draw midfielder to cover for Rodri’s absence, although in recent weeks Guardiola has trusted January signing Nico Gonzalez to a large degree.
It remains to be seen whether Guardiola wants someone younger to come into the team and develop his talents in the mould of the midfielder he wants. They were interested in Elche midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza, although in light of intense competition for the 20-year-old and Arsenal the front runners for his signature, Manchester City may look at other names.
Rodri’s Manchester City future in danger?
Apart from Mendoza, there are other names like Elliot Anderson, with Manchester City now seriously interested in the England international. There’s a big chance they may view him as the long-term heir to Rodri, but at the moment, Guardiola’s side could make the push to bring him in, although a January deal might sound difficult, as Nottingham Forest may not entertain offers in mid-season.
Meanwhile, there could be other names in the mix, although that does not necessarily mean Manchester City are parting ways with Rodri. In fact, they are confident of agreeing a new deal with the Spaniard to ensure he remains at the club for the long-term future. Given what he has done for the club, they may not look to sell him immediately in light of his fitness concerns.
