Pep Guardiola sold Manchester City’s next Rodri who’s better than Declan Rice
Despite some struggles, Manchester City remains a strong contender for the Premier League title this season. The team ranks first in the league for goals scored, having netted 15 times. They trail leaders Arsenal by just three points, showcasing their potential and resilience.
The Impact of Rodri’s Injury
One crucial player for City, Rodri, has faced recurring injury issues this year, impacting the team’s performance. Last season, the club experienced significant setbacks while Rodri was sidelined. Currently, he is unavailable for the upcoming Premier League match against Everton due to a hamstring issue sustained against Brentford, where he played only 22 minutes.
Finding a Solution for City
As the 29-year-old Rodri’s absence creates challenges, Guardiola may need to seek alternatives. New signing Nico Gonzalez has yet to fully integrate into the team following his £50 million transfer from Porto.
Potential Replacement: Douglas Luiz
Once part of Manchester City’s youth academy, Douglas Luiz now plays for Nottingham Forest. The Brazilian midfielder left City for Aston Villa in 2019 for £15 million and quickly established himself as a key player. His leadership and skill set could have provided valuable support in Rodri’s absence.
- Luiz is known for his impressive ball skills and combative style.
- He has been described as potentially better than Declan Rice.
- Luiz’s previous performances in the Premier League demonstrate his capabilities.
Comparing Performances: Rice vs. Luiz
While discussions about talent often include Declan Rice, Luiz’s statistics during the current season illustrate his potential superiority. Here’s a comparative overview:
| Statistic (per 90) | Declan Rice | Douglas Luiz |
|---|---|---|
| Goals | 0.15 | 0.31 |
| Assists | 0.05 | 0.15 |
| Shots | 1.39 | 1.70 |
| Pass Success | 91% | 85% |
| Key Passes | 0.77 | 1.49 |
| Tackles Won | 1.24 | 1.29 |
Conclusion
Rodri’s absence poses challenges for Manchester City as they aspire to maintain their competitive edge in the league. Although Douglas Luiz now plays elsewhere, his capabilities highlight what could have been for City. As Guardiola navigates Rodri’s injury, the depth and quality of the team’s options will be crucial in their Championship pursuits.
