Man City sent ‘clear message’ on Rodri replacement as Guardiola faces contract issues with host club

Manchester City’s plans to address their Rodri dilemma have hit a significant hurdle. Torino has unequivocally stated that midfielder Samuele Ricci will not be sold during the January transfer window.

The news forces Pep Guardiola and City’s recruitment team to look elsewhere for a solution as they navigate a difficult season without their midfield anchor.

Rodri’s Absence Exposes City’s Frailties

The ACL injury sustained by Rodri in the match against Arsenal in September has left City vulnerable. Without their midfield maestro, City failed to win six consecutive games heading into their clash with Liverpool. These struggles have underlined the urgent need for reinforcements, with Guardiola saying:

“It’s not an excuse that Rodri is not there. What are we going to do, cry all the time that Rodri is not there? I have to find a solution, and I’m trying every day.”

City had been keen to secure the services of Ricci, a 23-year-old who has impressed with his composure and versatility for Torino. According to Calciomercato, Ricci aroused “great interest” from City, but Torino’s hierarchy has taken a firm stance.

Torino’s Stance: No Sale

Torino currently sits 12th in Serie A and, while a sale could bring much-needed funds, they view selling Ricci mid-season as “counterproductive.” A source close to the Italian club conveyed that chiefs have no intention of letting Ricci leave until at least the summer, calling it a “loud and clear” message to suitors like Manchester City.

This development forces Guardiola to revisit his options. The manager reflected on his challenges:

“It’s not nice to live, of course, it’s not nice, but what do you expect? That everything will be a red carpet? That everything is nice and easy? Now I have to prove myself.”

Guardiola further reminded fans of City’s recent dominance, emphasizing that resilience is key:

“We cannot forget that, three months ago, we were Premier League champions. We made the FA Cup final and the quarter-finals of the Champions League. It’s not about playing good or bad; it’s about winning games. We won the Treble and four titles in a row.”

What’s Next for City?

With Ricci unavailable, the hunt for a new midfielder intensifies. The January window is notoriously tricky, but City’s financial muscle gives them an advantage in pursuing high-caliber replacements.

The challenge lies in finding someone who fits Guardiola’s system and can replicate Rodri’s influence on such short notice.

For now, Cityzens will need to trust Guardiola’s ability to adapt. While the Ricci setback is disappointing, City’s history suggests they’ll leave no stone unturned in their quest to maintain their competitive edge.