Manchester City | A €40m option to replace Rodri Hernandez

Manchester City is actively pursuing a replacement for the injured Rodri Hernandez. One of the players under consideration is Nicolò Rovella. Rodri, a key midfielder and Ballon d’Or winner, has been instrumental in Manchester City’s achievements.

His absence has created a significant gap in the midfield, leading the club to look into the transfer market for possible alternatives.

“If we need players, we will go to the transfer market, but I don’t know what will be available. Rodri is a Ballon d’Or winner. We are playing without the best player in the world from last season.

That’s the issue. How many championships did the Bulls win without Michael Jordan? No team can function without central defenders, without the Ballon d’Or winner, and without the best player of the season” said Pep Guardiola, Manchester City’s manager, last December.

Guardiola’s remarks emphasize the vital role Rodri has played in the team’s success and the difficulties they face in finding a suitable replacement.

While it may be quite challenging to find a player who can fill Rodri Hernández’s shoes in the middle of the season, the board is diligently exploring the market.

They are looking for a midfielder who can, as much as possible, make up for the loss of the exceptional Spanish player.

Among the candidates being evaluated, Nicolò Rovella stands out as a strong option. The 23-year-old Italian is currently enjoying a stellar season with Lazio, where he has been on loan from Juventus since the summer of 2023.

Rovella has played 53 times for Lazio, providing four assists and showcasing his skills as a central midfielder.

His performances have caught the attention of Manchester City, which is increasingly interested in him.

A Challenging Option for Manchester City

To bring Rovella to Manchester in January, City would need to negotiate an early end to his loan with Lazio.

This would involve a considerable financial outlay, as the newspaper Il Messaggero states that both Lazio and Juventus would require at least €40 million to approve this complex deal.

The potential acquisition of Rovella is a strategic decision for Manchester City. The club’s management believes that his abilities and style of play would align well with Guardiola’s tactical approach.

Rovella’s capacity to operate as a central midfielder, along with his vision and passing precision, makes him a perfect fit to replace Rodri.

Moreover, his youth and potential for development make him a valuable long-term asset for the club.

Nonetheless, pursuing Rovella comes with its own set of challenges. Ending his loan agreement with Lazio mid-season and finalizing his transfer would necessitate extensive negotiations and financial resources.

Additionally, bringing a new player into the squad during the season can be difficult, both in terms of team chemistry and adjusting to the fast-paced and physical nature of the Premier League.