Enzo Maresca spots a ‘dream’ replacement for Rodri that could shake up the Premier League
Manchester City’s head coach Enzo Maresca is hoping to bring Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez to replace Rodri, who looks set to leave soon — but how likely is this ‘dream’ move?
Rodri seems ready to swap Manchester City for Barcelona, with lots of reports saying he’s chosen the Catalan club over Real Madrid. The 30-year-old, now in the last year of his City contract, recently got a big money offer from Madrid. However, after long talks, he decided to go to Barca, reportedly because he likes their style of play and the legacy left by Pep Guardiola.
Rodri leaving will leave a big gap in City’s midfield as they chase the Premier League title. So, who might step in? Along with signing a record transfer, Elliot Anderson, City are also eyeing 18-year-old Ayyoub Bouaddi from Morocco, with personal deals already in place.
As mentioned, Enzo Fernandez is also linked with a move to City. Football journalist Gianluca Di Marzio said on Thursday that bringing Fernandez in is Maresca’s “dream.” But it’s unclear if talks can even happen for the young Argentine.
Fernandez and Maresca had a strong bond while at Chelsea. Earlier this year, Fernandez was clearly upset when Maresca left and Liam Rosenior took over. “His departure hurt us a lot because we had an identity,” Fernandez said. “He gave us structure, even though football has its ups and downs. We had a clear way of training and playing, so losing him in the middle of the season was tough.”
Maresca often praised Fernandez during his time at Chelsea, but convincing the 25-year-old to move to Manchester might be tricky, especially since Fernandez was linked with Real Madrid earlier this year.
Recently, Chelsea teammate Moises Caicedo spoke about Fernandez: “I love Enzo. He knows I respect him a lot. We know what a great player and person he is. I want him to stay here because he would be huge for us. But of course, he will do what’s best for him.”