Manchester City midfielder Kevin de Bruyne has said that Rodrigo can be regarded as the perfect signing for the Citizens in the defensive midfield role. The Spain international became the club’s most-expensive purchase after his arrival from Atletico Madrid this summer and he has instantly slotted into the holding midfield position.
Speaking to the club’s official website, De Bruyne praised the qualities of the former Villarreal man and said that the midfielder has the credentials to suit the club’s style of play in both offensive and defensive situations, he said: “He did really well. He’s a perfect fit for us. The way that we did transfers the last years adds up. You see a lot of young talent coming in willing to play our style. I think that’s what they’re looking for and he’s a perfect fit for us. I think he’s the perfect DM for the way we want to play. Our DM is a really difficult position. You need certain players for it and there’s not a lot of people who can do both sides of it. “
Rodri featured during the recent Community Shield clash against Liverpool and he put up a credible performance in the centre of the park in the absence of Fernandinho. The latter has returned to training ahead of the league opener against West Ham United, but it remains to be seen whether Pep Guardiola continues with Rodri, who has been earmarked as a long-term replacement for the Brazilian.
City have not pursued a new central defender to replace the departed Vincent Kompany but there is the option of fielding Kyle Walker and Fernandinho at the heart of the backline if required. The Mancunian giants ended the transfer window with the purchase of Joan Cancelo from Juventus and the right-back is expected to play second fiddle to Walker after Danilo made the move to the Bianconeri.