As the campaign for Rodri to win a Ballon d’Or heats up in the media, there is a search for his replacement going on behind the scenes at Manchester City. Not in terms of a new signing however, as Pep Guardiola has made clear any major new additions are unlikely. That means finding a system among his existing players that can cope in Rodri’s absence.
Last year, when Rodri was suspended for three games, City lost all three with different defensive midfield systems in all three. Rodri had begged for more rest at the start of the campaign, but was then needed again to play the majority of games in another long campaign. City can’t afford to do that again as they approach a longer season than ever before. Rodri is too important to risk burnout, or worse, injury.
Last season it was a range of players like Mateo Kovacic, Rico Lewis, Manu Akanji, John Stones who replaced Rodri. This season the same names will be used, most likely in pairs or with full-backs inverting inside. Bernardo Silva has impressed playing deeper as well. Guardiola has now named Nico O’Reilly as another option in a double pivot and the teenager will be a first team option going forward.
Kovacic, too, prefers number six but not on his own. He mentioned that playing deeper requires precise timing and movement, which is crucial for the role. Kovacic is set to be a key part of the alternative tactics given his performances in the USA alongside O’Reilly. When Rodri is playing, Kovacic forms a useful partnership with him, pushing forward and covering when Rodri makes runs.
Kovacic reflects on his positioning and defensive responsibilities in the number six role, noting the importance of holding position and not getting too involved in going everywhere. He understands what is asked of him in that position and is willing to improve and adapt to it.
If City are to get the balance right when replacing Rodri, Kovacic is set to be at the heart of it. He knows what he must do, what to improve, and where he is most comfortable. Getting all those things to click this season could be the difference between winning and losing – and keeping Rodri as fit as possible.
