According to a recent report by the Sun, Manchester City are the favourites to bring Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodrigo to the Etihad Stadium this summer but only if they are willing to include Gabriel Jesus as part of the deal. The same source has revealed that the La Liga giants want to sign Jesus this summer which has put the Citizens on the driver’s seat in the race to recruit Rodrigo.
Rodrigo’s Early Career And Recent Success
The Madrid born talent came through the youth ranks of Atletico before he was shipped out to Villarreal CF in the summer of 2013. However, he decided to seal a return back to his former club last summer and things have worked out well for him thus far.
The 22-year-old has enjoyed a solid campaign in the Spanish top-flight after he put in some commanding displays at the heart of Diego Simeone’s midfield during this season. The Spanish talent has featured in 47 matches for the Madrid outfit, finding the back of the net three times while also grabbing one assist.
More importantly, he has made an average of 2.6 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 1.8 clearances per game for Atletico across all competitions (Stats taken from Whoscored).
What Will The Spanish Midfield Ace Bring To The Etihad?
Rodrigo is a very productive dribbler with the ball at his feet which enables him to make some lung-bursting runs from midfield. He is also a decent passer in the opposition half. However, what makes the Spaniard such an essential asset for Simeone’s side is his ability to protect the backline.
One can argue that Rodrigo will be an ideal replacement for Fernandinho in the long-run as the Brazilian is currently playing in the twilight years of his career. Thus, it only makes sense for Pep Guardiola to try his best to recruit the La Liga midfielder in this offseason.
Final Verdict
Rodrigo has all the makings to be a future star at the blue half of Manchester. However, the Spaniard might have to be patient if he does decide to move to England as he won’t be a guaranteed starter in Guardiola’s starting XI.
