Rodri out, Fernandez in at City?

Manchester City may have already identified their preferred successor to Rodri, with Enzo Fernandez emerging as the name new head coach Enzo Maresca reportedly wants to bring to the Etihad.

The future of Rodri, who was named the 2026 World Cup’s best player after guiding Spain to the title, has become increasingly uncertain following reports that the Spain midfielder has been heavily linked with a move away to Barcelona or Real Madrid.

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The Spaniard has reportedly given Barcelona the green light to open negotiations with City over a possible transfer, while Real Madrid have also been monitoring the situation of the 30-year-old for a while now.

With Rodri having just a year left on his contract, City are reportedly prepared to let him leave for around 60 million euros. His recent injury troubles, including a minor back operation last month, have added another layer of uncertainty over his future.

Amid that situation, Italian journalist Gianluca Di Marzio has reported that Maresca has identified Fernandez as his first-choice replacement for the Spanish midfield maestro.

The Argentine midfielder is a familiar figure to Maresca, who coached him at Chelsea and is believed to have developed a strong relationship with the 25-year-old. Under Maresca, Fernandez produced one of his best spells at Stamford Bridge and also wore the captain's armband.

Fernandez has since established himself as a key figure for Argentina, helping them reach the World Cup final last month with important goals against Egypt in the last 16 and England in the semifinals.

City's interest, however, could prove difficult to turn into a deal. Chelsea regard the former River Plate midfielder as an important part of their long-term plans, while Fernandez remains under contract beyond the 2026/27 season.

For City, though, Rodri's possible departure could force their hand. The Spaniard has been central to the club's success since joining from Atletico Madrid, winning four Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League, including the winning goal in the final against Inter Milan.

Replacing a player of Rodri's influence would be no straightforward task, but Maresca's familiarity with Fernandez could make the Argentine an appealing option as City prepare for a potentially significant change in midfield.