Report: Manchester City Wants to Bring 27-Year-Old As Rodri’s Replacement

Premier League giants Manchester City are reportedly interested in signing Inter Milan star Nicolo Barella as injured Rodri’s replacement. The Cityzens, however, could find it difficult to sign Barella, as he holds an indispensable position at Inter.

Manchester City to Be Without Rodri for Remainder of 2024-25

Manchester City midfielder Rodri went down under a challenge from Thomas Partey in the 1-1 draw with Arsenal in the Premier League on September 22. Man City did not disclose the severity of the injury right away, instead opting to send Rodri to Spain to consult with a specialist.

On Friday, September 27, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola confirmed that Rodri had sustained an Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Meniscus injury and had undergone surgery to address those issues. The Spaniard also communicated that Rodri would not be available for selection in 2024-25.

“He had surgery this morning – ACL and some meniscus, so next season he will be here. This season is over,” said Guardiola (via ManCity.com)

“We got the worst [news possible] but it is what it is. Sometimes, unfortunately, it happens. We are there to support him. Good recovery, step by step and we move forward.”

Man City Eye Nicolo Barella As Rodri Replacement

Manchester City has one of the best squads in the world, but Rodri is the only player on their squad who possesses the ability to dictate the tempo of the game. Without him, City tends to struggle not only to penetrate the opposition lines but also to maintain their shape. After failing to beat 10-man Arsenal, Guardiola’s men dropped two more points, drawing 1-1 with Newcastle United over the weekend.

According to the Daily Star, City wants to fix the Rodri problem by signing Barella from Inter in the January transfer window. Like Rodri, Barella can strike a perfect balance between attacking and defending, which makes him a brilliant asset in midfield.

However, signing him will not be straightforward, as the Nerazzurri has no intention of tinkering with the winning formula. They tied Barella to an improved contract in June 2024 and can keep him at the club until June 2029. The defending Italian champions have reportedly set a price tag of around £75 million ($100.6 million) on the Italy international.