Man City boss Maresca targets next Rodri after midfielder's exit

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca is looking to identify the "next Rodri" after the influential midfielder's move to Barcelona, expressing faith in the club's ability to replace vital players.

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I'll try to find a new Rodri - it is what it is

Rodri, 30, concluded a seven-year tenure at City, marked by numerous trophies including four Premier League titles, a Champions League, and two FA Cups. "I'll try to find a new Rodri - it is what it is," Maresca told reporters. He recalled Rodri's arrival without major accolades and his subsequent achievements at the club, setting the target for his successor.

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When David Silva was here, everyone was worried – Kevin (De Bruyne) arrived. When Sergio Aguero was here, everyone was worried – Erling (Haaland) arrived. When Fernandinho left, Rodri arrived. It's just about this

Maresca acknowledged the difficulty in replacing the Spanish international but pointed to City's recruitment track record. "When David Silva was here, everyone was worried – Kevin (De Bruyne) arrived. When Sergio Aguero was here, everyone was worried – Erling (Haaland) arrived. When Fernandinho left, Rodri arrived. It's just about this," he explained, emphasizing the club's process of identifying and recruiting replacements.

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When they leave, you need to be good and recruit the next one.

Rodri, the reigning Ballon d'Or winner and a key figure in Spain's recent international successes, including a World Cup triumph, has further cemented his legacy. His departure is one of several squad changes for City during the current transfer window. Maresca anticipates more transfer activity but remains calm, stating the club must adapt and will not force players to stay if they wish to leave.

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We need to adapt and we don't want to keep players here that don't want to stay.