Man City have to prioritise a Rodri replacement

 

Manchester City may need to enter the January transfer market to address their struggles, particularly in midfield if they are to secure a top-four finish this season. The absence of Rodri has been a glaring issue, and many believe his unavailability has had a profound impact on the team’s performance. Without him, City have looked uncharacteristically disjointed, raising serious concerns about their ability to compete at the highest level.

City’s immediate priority, according to many observers, should be signing a defensive midfielder to fill the void left by Rodri. His influence as a holding midfielder has been integral to City’s success, and his absence has exposed significant vulnerabilities. "I know people say it's not just down to him," one commentator noted, but personally, I do. It’s as simple as that.

The comparison is stark, If you drive a Ferrari or a Rolls Royce and put diesel in, it’s not going anywhere. No matter how good the car is, if it doesn’t have the right engine, it won’t work. That’s what’s happening with City right now. Without Rodri’s presence, City have struggled to maintain their structure and fluidity.

Defensively,  City appears more vulnerable than ever. The once-organized backline is now frequently exposed, with opposing teams finding it easier to create chances. “How many times do you see City getting attacked now and they’re all over the place? It didn’t happen with Rodri,” the analysis continued. His ability to read the game and anticipate danger provided the defense with critical protection.

In possession, Rodri’s contributions were equally vital. His quick, precise passes through the lines to players like Bernardo Silva, Phil Foden, and Kevin De Bruyne allowed City’s creative players to operate with time and space, dismantling defenses. Without him, the ball isn’t moving as efficiently, leaving these attacking stars with less room to influence games. Those five- or ten-yard balls through the lines don’t happen now, the commentator added. When you don’t get the ball as quickly, everything closes in. Those players need time and space to destroy opponents, but they’re not getting it.

City’s struggles extend to their defensive organization, with the lack of midfield protection leaving the backline exposed. “The defense is all over the place because they don’t have that shield in front of them,” the expert remarked.

To address these issues,  City must act decisively in January. A new holding midfielder could restore balance to the team, providing the defensive stability and quick transitions needed to reignite their season. Without reinforcements, their hopes of competing for trophies—or even securing a top-four finish—could slip away.