Man City handed Rodri replacement verdict as Pep Guardiola told honest truth

Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has called Martin Zubimendi the second-best player in the world in his position to Manchester City's Rodri.

Zubimendi scored Spain's winner in their Nations League clash against Denmark on Saturday. The midfielder played a key role in La Roja's European Championship victory in Germany last summer having played in all but three games.

The 25-year-old was strongly linked with a summer move to Liverpool, but the move never materialised, and he stayed put at Real Sociedad. Arsenal and Manchester United have also previously been linked.

And De la Fuente has explained what makes Zubimendi so good. The Spanish manager highlighted his calmness and tranquillity.

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“Well, simply, we know he's a footballer who is a safe bet, always plays with a lot of calmness and tranquillity, always with great judgment," he said at his post-match press conference via Guillem Balague.

"I think especially that it was in the second half when we were all playing better, and I don't know if he was better because the whole team was better, or the whole team was better because he was better. In short, I insist, he's always a safe bet, gives you everything you ask for, and he has fantastic talent.

"He doesn't score many goals, but with us, he seems to be starting to get going, so we celebrate that and hopefully this continues. He's a great player. I've already said that for me—you know—that he's one of the best, the second best in the world along with Rodrigo [Rodri].”

Rodri is currently out injured for the season after suffering ligament damage during September's 2-2 draw against Arsenal. The Spaniard has had surgery with City boss Pep Guardiola confirming he would be out for a "long time".

Man City Champions League special

Manchester City want their European crown back. And this Manchester Evening News guide to the competition is the perfect companion to guide City fans through the new-look tournament.

In what could be the last try for Pep Guardiola, Kevin De Bruyne and a number of the squad that have won the last four Premier League titles, City are determined to go all the way once more in Europe.

2023 finalists Inter Milan, Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain are among the eight teams City must face in a new first phase that features 36 teams in one giant mini-league. City will hope and expect to make their way through the league phase and hopefully go all the way.

The Manchester Evening News will be there every step of the way to cover Guardiola's bid for glory as City look to put last season's disappointment behind them and show that they are the best team on the continent.

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