How will Manchester City replace Rodri in the immediate future? | OneFootball

Manchester City suffered a major injury with Rodri set to miss the majority of, if not the remainder of 24/25 season. The Spanish international suffered a suspected ACL tear during Manchester City’s 2-all draw with Arsenal on Sunday. Moises Llorens broke the news of the severity of Rodri’s injury for ESPN yesterday. The January transfer window is still over 3 months away from opening so how will Manchester City cover the loss of Rodri in the immediate future? That is a big concern going forward.

First of all, Manchester City can’t dwell on the loss of Rodri. There is no doubt that the midfielder being out for such a significant period is a massive blow for Manchester City. But the champions can’t feel sorry for themselves. Injuries are part and parcel of the game and City have dealt with them in seasons past. Pep Guardiola isn’t a manager to dwell on the loss of his most important player. There is little doubt that Guardiola already is at work trying to find a solution to Rodri’s absence.

But how do you cover Rodri? There isn’t a single player who can fill his shoes. That is a testament to just how good Rodri is. Mateo Kovacic has stepped up so far this season in Rodri’s role. He is one player who now has a big role to play this season. The same goes for Ilkay Gundogan. Rico Lewis looks destined to develop into a midfielder in time, but given the recent form of Kyle Walker he may be needed to stay at right-back. Rodri’s absence may be the opportunity for Matheus Nunes to finally make an impact for Manchester City. Perhaps it will take a tactical tweak and a new midfield combination to cover the long-term loss of Rodri. There are options there for Pep Guardiola to cover the loss of City’s most important players.

How Manchester City cover the loss of Rodri in the immediate future is now a story to watch for. City may move in the January transfer window but that is months away from opening. Pep Guardiola will have to make do with what City have to cover the loss of City’s midfield general. But the options are there and it may take time to find the ideal solution.