BREAKING: Man City Faces Setback as La Liga Star Rejects January Transfer Move to Join Guardiola’s Squad

Manchester City’s January transfer window plans have encountered an early setback as their primary midfield target, Martin Zubimendi, has reportedly rejected a potential move to the Premier League champions.¹ This development presents a significant challenge for Pep Guardiola, who has publicly acknowledged the need for reinforcements in the midfield department.

The pursuit of Zubimendi intensified following the news of Rodri Hernandez’s long-term injury. Rodri, a crucial component of City’s midfield, is expected to miss a significant portion of the season after undergoing knee surgery. This absence has left a considerable void in the team’s midfield, prompting Guardiola to seek immediate solutions in the January transfer market.

Guardiola has openly stated that his squad “needs help in January,” emphasizing the team’s struggles in the Premier League and the urgent need for additional depth.² With Rodri sidelined, the midfield has lacked its usual stability and control, impacting the team’s overall performance.

Zubimendi, the 25-year-old Real Sociedad midfielder, was identified as the ideal replacement for Rodri.³ His playing style, characterized by strong defensive attributes and excellent passing ability, aligns perfectly with Guardiola’s tactical preferences.

Despite Manchester City’s strong interest, Zubimendi has opted to remain at Real Sociedad.⁴ This decision echoes his stance from the previous summer when he rejected a move to Liverpool. Zubimendi’s commitment to his current club has dealt a blow to City’s transfer plans.

Guardiola, addressing the media after City’s 2-0 victory against Leicester City, reiterated the club’s intention to be active in the January transfer market.⁵ He acknowledged the impact of injuries and the need for greater squad depth, particularly in midfield.

The City manager specifically mentioned the need for a player who can fill the gap left by Rodri’s absence. This statement further underscores the importance of securing a suitable midfield reinforcement in January.

Reports suggest that Zubimendi was always Guardiola’s top target. However, the midfielder’s unwavering desire to stay at Real Sociedad has forced City to reassess their options.

Zubimendi was heavily linked with a move to Liverpool earlier in the year, with the Merseyside club reportedly prepared to activate his £51 million release clause.⁶ However, the player turned down the opportunity, demonstrating his commitment to Real Sociedad.

Manchester City had hoped to persuade Zubimendi to reconsider his stance and make the move to the Etihad Stadium. However, reports indicate that the player’s position has not changed, leaving City to explore alternative targets.

Zubimendi’s contract with Real Sociedad extends until 2027, further complicating any potential transfer.⁷ The Spanish club has also made it clear that they will not entertain offers below his £51 million release clause.

With Zubimendi no longer an option, Manchester City will now turn their attention to other potential midfield targets. One name that has been linked with a move to the Etihad is Newcastle United’s Bruno Guimaraes.⁸

Reports from various sources, including TBR Football and The Athletic, confirm Zubimendi’s intention to remain at Real Sociedad during the current transfer window. This information reinforces the setback faced by Manchester City in their pursuit of the midfielder.

Guardiola’s recent comments highlight the challenges that Manchester City is facing this season. Inconsistent results and key injuries, particularly Rodri’s absence, have put a strain on the squad.

The failure to secure Zubimendi is a significant blow to City’s January transfer plans. However, the club is expected to remain active in the market and explore other options to strengthen their midfield and maintain their competitiveness.