The Inside Gist:
- Manchester City is now looking at 25-year-old Martín Zubimendi for a possible Rodri replacement come January
- City will have to meet a release clause of £50.3 million for a successful transfer
- Rodri’s absence in the games due to his injury impacted City’s performances negatively
The Challenges Man City have faced, of recent, this season, sources say, could be linked to Rodri’s absence in the games. In fact, Manchester City is on the lookout to get his replacement. But, negotiations are currently ongoing ahead of January 2025.
Fact-check: A report obtained from The Sun confirmed that City’s priority for January is signing a new central midfielder who can fill in for 2024 Ballon d’Or winner Rodri. Rodri continues to recover from a torn ACL. He has not been fit to play since his injury.
Pep Guardiola has asked City’s management to pursue Real Sociedad and Spain national team midfielder Martín Zubimendi. Zubimendi, who’s now 20 years old, made his Champions League debut in a 1–1 draw against Inter Milan on September 20, 2023.
Fact-check: Martín Zubimendi’s real name is Martín Zubimendi Ibáñez and he is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for La Liga club Real Sociedad and the Spain national team.
Recall: Over the summer of 2024, Liverpool did show an interest in signing Zubimendi, however, the deal later didn’t happen, as Zubimendi chose to remain with his hometown club instead.
For what itʼs worth: Manchester City has lost four consecutive matches this season, with the club’s latest loss being a 2-1 loss to Brighton & Hove Albion F.C.
Know this: Manchester City need to meet Martín Zubimendi’s release clause, set at £50.3 million in his contract, for the midfielder to join the club.
