Manchester City is going through one of its worst runs since Pep Guardiola took over as manager, and Martín Zubimendi’s name has emerged as the urgent solution the Catalan coach needs. Real Sociedad and their young Spanish midfielder are the target of an offer that promises to shake up the winter transfer market. 

Rodri’s injury has left the team exposed in a key position, and while Mateo Kovacic has tried to fill the gap, his style doesn’t provide the same stability as the Spanish midfielder. The stats are clear: with Rodri on the pitch, City has lost only one of their last 81 games; without him, the team has suffered nine losses in just 25 matches. For Guardiola, this is reason enough to go all out for Zubimendi in January.

Negotiating with Real Sociedad won’t be easy. Zubimendi, 25, has been clear about his loyalty to the club, stating that he wants to continue developing in San Sebastián. However, English media suggest that the player himself might be reconsidering his options, potentially opening an unexpected door for City. With a €64 million release clause, Guardiola would need to make a significant financial commitment, but he is convinced that Real Sociedad’s pivot is the perfect replacement for Rodri.

The connection between the two midfielders is no coincidence. In the last European Championship, Zubimendi replaced Rodri when the Madrid-born player was injured, leaving a strong impression on Spain’s head coach. Their tactical profiles are similar, and Guardiola believes that Zubimendi could adapt to his playing scheme almost immediately. Although the Spanish midfielder turned down an offer from Liverpool in the summer, City’s proposal might now be attractive enough to make him reconsider.

Meanwhile, Guardiola faces a challenging December schedule, with crucial matches in both the Premier League and Champions League. Zubimendi’s arrival would provide City with a stability they haven’t found in Rodri’s absence. If the Catalan manager can close the deal, it would be one of the most significant signings of the season and a move that could shape Manchester City’s path in the second half of the campaign. 

The decision lies with Zubimendi. If he accepts, he will not only have the chance to be a key player in one of Europe’s most successful teams but also to refine his game under Guardiola’s guidance. The winter transfer window is near, and with each loss that City accumulates, the need for a “new Rodri” becomes more urgent.