A Spanish international appears to be the ideal player to cover Rodri but could City move for him? | OneFootball

It would appear that Manchester City will look to add a midfielder to cover the loss of Rodri to a season-ending knee injury. Rodri’s loss is a blow for the world champions. So it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them move for a midfielder to aid their chase for silverware on multiple fronts this season. The perfect replacement for Rodri doesn’t exist. But Spanish international Martin Zubimendi looks to be the player most capable of stepping into Rodri’s role. But is that a realistic possibility in January? That remains to be seen.

As a player, Martin Zubimendi ticks every box required to step into Rodri’s shoes for Manchester City. He is the heartbeat of Real Sociedad’s midfield. With his exceptional passing ability and ability to dictate the tempo of a game, Zubimendi looks capable of playing for Pep Guardiola’s side. The Spanish international is also exceptional at breaking up the play and regaining possession. Those traits have seen the Spanish international rise to prominence in European football.

Another box that is ticked by Zubimendi as a player who can step into Rodri’s role for Manchester City is that he has done the job before for Spain. He came on for Rodri at halftime of his country’s 2-1 European Championship final win over England. When the pressure was at its highest, Zubimendi shone, stepping in for one of the best midfielders in the game. Based on his consistent performances for Real Sociedad and the role he plays for Spain there is no doubt that Zubimendi could step into Rodri’s role for Manchester City.

Is a Manchester City move for Martin Zubimendi actually possible in January?

Spanish publication Relevo has previously reported that Manchester City have an interest in signing Martin Zubimendi. Furthermore, Relevo reports that the £50.3 million release clause in Zubimendi’s contract is appealing to the world champions. As a player, Zubimendi ticks every box required of a potential Manchester City player. His reported release clause is also more than affordable for the world champions. The question appears to be would Zubimendi be interested in a move to City?

Speaking recently, Zubimendi was asked about a potential move to Manchester City. In quotes relayed by El Rincon de la Real, the Spanish international said: “There are always rumour,s but so far, I’ve always thought that the best solution for me is staying at Real Sociedad.” Zubimendi’s quote seems to put to bed any chance of the Spanish international leaving Real Sociedad in January.

Summary.

As a player Martin Zubimendi looks perfectly suited to cover for Rodri. He has done that job for his country, albeit in a slightly different manner. Zubimendi has also shown for both club and country just how good a player he is. In my opinion he would fit seamlessly into Pep Guardiola’s squad.

But as with all things that seem perfect the chances appear slim that City could land Zubimendi. Especially in January. The player himself seems determined to stay at Real Sociedad. That of course could change but for now as good as Zubimendi is the chances of him arriving at the Etihad appear slim.