**Manchester City Eye Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi to Bolster Midfield Amid Injury Crisis**
Manchester City’s winter transfer window could see a major push for Real Sociedad’s star midfielder Martin Zubimendi. With Pep Guardiola’s squad battling an unusual injury crisis, the reigning Premier League champions are keen to strengthen their midfield lineup, particularly as they cope with the long-term absence of Rodri, who recently underwent surgery.
Rodri’s Absence Spurs Search for Reinforcement
Rodri, Manchester City’s anchor in midfield, has been sidelined for the rest of the season due to a severe knee injury.
Although the Ballon d’Or-winning Spaniard hopes to return in time for the FIFA Club World Cup, his absence has left a critical gap in City’s midfield.
In his stead, Guardiola has experimented with Ilkay Gundogan, Mateo Kovacic, and occasionally defenders like Manuel Akanji and John Stones, but none have been able to replicate Rodri’s influence consistently.
Zubimendi as a Prime Target in winter transfer window
Reports from Spain suggest that City’s scouts have honed in on 26-year-old Martin Zubimendi, who has been instrumental for Real Sociedad in La Liga.
Known for his composure, passing accuracy, and tactical intelligence, Zubimendi has a €60 million release clause, which City might be willing to meet. Journalist Marco Antonio Sande from Cope Gipuzkoa reports that offers for Zubimendi are expected in January, with Manchester City’s interest rumored to be particularly strong.
According to sources, City could bypass negotiations with Real Sociedad and deal directly with the player to speed up the transfer.
Intense Winter Transfer Battle Ahead
Real Sociedad will likely struggle to retain Zubimendi amid the strong interest from City, especially with a tempting release clause in place.
City’s pursuit of Zubimendi is expected to intensify as the January transfer window approaches, with insiders describing it as a “long and hard winter” for Sociedad.
The Etihad club appears determined to secure Zubimendi to bring stability to their midfield for the season’s second half.
Guardiola’s Current Options and Tactical Adjustments
Until the transfer window opens, Guardiola must rely on his current squad to navigate upcoming fixtures. The likes of Gundogan and Kovacic have been rotated in the defensive midfield role, but fitness issues with Stones and Akanji have made it difficult to find a reliable solution.
Youngster Rico Lewis has also stepped into midfield on occasion, showing promise but lacking the experience needed for high-stakes encounters.
Manchester City’s next fixture following the international break is a critical Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur at the Etihad Stadium.
This match will be a test for Guardiola’s makeshift midfield and an opportunity to break City’s recent four-game losing streak across all competitions.
As January approaches, City fans will watch closely to see if Zubimendi is the missing piece in the midfield puzzle and if his arrival can help Manchester City sustain their push for both domestic and international success in the latter part of the season.
