Pep Guardiola has already found his perfect Rodri alternative as Man City solve injury problem
Pep Guardiola may have already found the perfect Rodri replacement just days after the Spanish midfielder sustained a long-term injury.
Spanish midfielder Rodri was made to come off the pitch during Manchester City's potentially season-defining match against Arsenal at the Etihad in the 22nd minute after a clash with Thomas Partey forced him out of the game.
On Wednesday, a statement from City confirmed that the 28-year-old had suffered a ligament injury to his right knee, suggesting that he could face an extended period of time off of the pitch.
However, just days after losing Rodri, it appears that City boss Pep Guardiola may have already found the perfect replacement.
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Midfield youngster Nico O'Reilly was handed a rare start as a holding midfielder for City during Tuesday's Carabao Cup clash with Watford and massively impressed fans online.
Reacting to the 19-year-old's performance, one fan wrote: "Nico O'Reilly really put in a single pivot shift and won his duels. Bed him in with the seniors. Kova is already on borrowed time knowing him."
Another agreed, adding: "Take aways from that: Nico O’Reilly is ready to be in and around the first team, impressive again and I’d imagine he’ll be on the bench now with Rodri out."
While one noted: "Not just good on the ball, but covered the pitch and other positions when required. Excellent performance."
And another joked: "Rodri got injured and we spawned his regen in Nico O’Reilly."
The Watford match was only O'Reilly's second appearance for the City senior team, having spent 11 years in the club's academy, regularly playing for the youth teams.
His debut came during City's penalty shootout victory over local rivals Manchester United in August, with him starting the match before being substituted off for Mattheus Nunes shortly after the hour mark.
But, while he has impressed so far, he faces a massive task in attempting to fill the sizeable gap left in the squad by the absence of star player Rodri.
In their official statement confirming Rodri's injury, City wrote: "Manchester City FC can confirm that Rodri has suffered a ligament injury to his right knee.
"The midfielder travelled to Spain to seek specialist consultation this week, following initial tests in Manchester.
"Assessment remains ongoing to ascertain the full extent of the injury and expected prognosis.
"Everyone at the Club wishes him a speedy recovery."
Topics: Pep Guardiola, Rodri, Carabao Cup, Watford, Injury, Man City
Ben McCrum