Matthew Wilkinson

Wed 19 February 2025 10:57, UK

Man City have been forced to adapt this season after being without Ballon d’Or winner Rodri for the majority of the campaign due to an injury, and that led to Pep Guardiola scouring European football during the January transfer window.

Rodri suffered a devastating knee injury back in September against Arsenal, and that is an issue that is expected to keep him out of action throughout the entire campaign.

The 28-year-old has recently stepped up his rehabilitation process with City in a bid to make a return to the squad before the season ends, but it remains to be seen if he will do that.

Guardiola opted to register the Spain international in his Champions League squad for the knockout phase of the competition, which raised eyebrows about whether or not he will return sooner than expected.

Former Everton CEO Keith Wyness exclusively revealed to Football Insider that Man City’s decision to include Rodri in the Champions League squad wasn’t just “wishful thinking,” but was actually “brilliant” news about his recovery progress.

City have struggled without Rodri’s commanding presence in the midfield, which has been reflected in their Premier League standings where they sit fourth.

Nico Gonzalez earned Rodri comparisons after his Premier League debut

Gonzalez joined City in the January transfer window for a few of £50million from Porto, committing his future to the Premier League giants until 2029.

The 23-year-old made his Premier League debut on 15 February as City dominated Newcastle 4-0, and the midfielder had a dominant performance that has earned comparisons to Rodri.

Gonzalez completed more passes than anyone in the game and boasted a 97 percent accuracy with them, while also making the most passes in the final third.

The Spain international also made the second most tackles and won four duels throughout the game, which was the fifth highest.

Man City supporters are impressed by Gonzalez

Gonzalez has managed to capture the attention of City fans immediately, which has led to comparisons to Rodri.

Supporters believe that he is a “mini Rodri” and is somebody who “has the ability to read the game” while also having a “physical presence.”

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