Rodri has tipped Manchester City to sign a “fantastic” player for £60m in January

Rodri has tipped Manchester City to sign a “fantastic” player for £60m in January

 

Rodri will be greatly missed by Manchester City fans, but it will be a long time before we see him again.

 

The Spaniard suffered an ACL injury against Arsenal earlier this season and will not play again this season. The news of Rodri’s injury came as a shock to the fans as everyone knows that he is a very influential player for Manchester City.

 

And his absence is already felt. City are currently on a four-game losing streak and many eyes are on January, which could provide an opportunity to replace the Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder. Reports have emerged that the club could sign Martin Zuvimendi. Rodri wants Manchester City to sign Martin Zuvimendi

 

The Daily Star reports that Manchester City are currently considering a move for Martin Zuvimendi from Real Sociedad.

 

The star is Rodri’s team-mate in Spain and has long impressed at his club. Rodri reportedly ‘briefed’ City managers on Zuvimendi ahead of the January transfer window, speaking of his qualities.

 

One of Zubimendi’s greatest appeals is his ability to control play from a deep midfield position, and Rodri does this very well. The purchase price for the player is £60m, which is ideal as City have a budget of around £100m for the next transfer window.

 

City need a middle controller

It has become clear in recent weeks that City need someone to provide peace in midfield. Mateo Kovacic has performed well this season.

 

However, there is a feeling that the number 8 would be better off using his ability to control the ball. Ilkay Gundogan has been fit since his return but wasn’t expected to play much either. Rodri (Manchester City, 2023/24) Martin Zuvimendi (Real Sociedad, 2023/24)

Minutes played – 34/2931 Number of games – 31/2654

Bones/Hip – 8/9 Bones/Hip – 4/1

Target Hit % – 35.5% Target Hit % – 50%

Success rate – 92% Success rate – 85.7%

90-4.82 shot attempts to 90-1.87 shot attempts

Dribble Loss % – 48.3% Dribble Loss % – 54.8%

% success in battle – 65.6% % success in battle – 66.7%

Yellow/red card – 8/1 yellow/red – 5/0

Competitive statistics by fbref

Zuvimendi’s move, described as “fantastic” by Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, would be a welcome move. The star is a solid midfielder and a player who gives Pep Guardiola the control he wants.

According to fbref data, Zubimendi ranks in the 85th percentile of players with 1.97 clearances per 90 (over the last 365 days). He also ranks in the 70th percentile in blocks (1.40) and the 62nd percentile in interceptions.

 

 

We often see City spending big in January. However, circumstances will be very different in the next transfer window and Zubimendi’s £60m may not be reached.

 

 

If this is the player Rodri is banking on, City could seriously consider him.