Man City will 'try to find' new Rodri, says Enzo Maresca
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca is looking to recruit a replacement following the departure of star midfielder Rodri to Barcelona. Maresca remains optimistic about the club's ability to transition, citing past successful replacements for key players like David Silva and Sergio Aguero.
Why it matters
Rodri's exit marks a significant shift for a top-tier Premier League club, highlighting the ongoing challenges of squad management and recruitment in elite professional football.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Rodri joined Barcelona from Man City for £65m this summer
Manchester City reporter Published 22 August 2026 Manchester City will "try to find the new Rodri" after the Spain captain left the club earlier this week to join La Liga champions Barcelona, says manager Enzo Maresca.
Rodri became one of the best midfielders in the world during his seven seasons at the Etihad Stadium, winning the 2024 Ballon d'Or award as well as four Premier League titles and scoring the only goal in the 2023 Champions League final.
The 30-year-old led his country to a World Cup triumph during the summer and has signed a four-year contract at the Nou Camp after Barca agreed to pay a fee in the region of £65m.
"How do we solve that problem?" asked Maresca. "We try to find the new Rodri, it is what it is.
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