Over the past few years, Real Sociedad poster-boy Martin Zubimendi has established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in Europe.
So much so that Rodri has advised Manchester City to sign Zubimendi as his direct replacement in January.
A report emerged on Monday that Manchester City are confident they can sign Zubimendi in the winter window as well.
Manchester City have never lost four games on the trot under Pep Guardiola — a reality that would have justifiably sent shock waves within the camp.
In their last four fixtures, City have scored four goals while shipping as many as 10.
As a result, the Sky Blues’ reported interest in a holding midfielder of the ilk of Zubimendi would be understandable.
Man City fans all on board with Martin Zubimendi January transfer
Real Sociedad, who finished sixth in La Liga last season are currently eighth in the Spanish top-flight.
Previously, Zubimendi has rubbished links to Manchester City and committed his future to Sociedad.
From Manchester City supporters’ point of view, they are on board with the club making a for move for the 26-year-old in January.
A Manchester City fan has predicted the club to sign Zubimendi, raving about his potential capture by writing: “We found our next Rodri. Ladies and gentlemen, Martin Zubimendi is coming.”
Another City fan wrote: “Zubimendi, [Liam] Delap and a full-back in January and Txiki [Begiristain] will be a legend.”
Lastly, a City fan simply wrote: “Sign Zubimendi ASAP.”
Zubimendi stats vs Barcelona
Manchester City fans would have been encouraged to witness Zubimendi play a crucial role in Real Sociedad’s 1-0 win against Barcelona on Sunday.
Hansi Flick’s side put forth a brilliant midfield trio of Pedri, Frenkie de Jong and Marc Casado to face Imanol Alguacil and Co.
Yet, the league leaders suffered a surprise defeat at the hands of Sociedad. Here are how Zubimendi’s statistics looked from the game.
| ZUBIMENDI STATS VS BARCELONA | |
| TACKLES | 4 |
| AERIAL DUELS WON | 2/2 |
| GROUND DUELS WON | 5/8 |
| PASSING ACCURACY | 81% (17/21) |
| TOUCHES | 38 |
The Spanish international clearly played a starring role in his side’s latest win.
Barcelona dominated proceedings, having 70 per cent of the possession.
But Real Sociedad’s dogged performance restricted one of the most in-form teams in the world and Zubimendi’s showing was a key factor behind that being the case.
Manchester City and their supporters would naturally have been even more convinced than before that the highly-rated midfielder could transform their side if he signed for the club in January.
