Who Should Pep Guardiola Sign to Replace Fernandinho Next Season?

Manchester City’s defense is as strong as ever, and this does not necessitate the inclusion of another defensive midfielder in the lineup. However, with influential players like Fernandinho nearing the twilight of their careers, the quest for a new CDM (Central Defensive Midfielder) to continue Manchester City’s tactical brilliance is paramount. This article explores potential candidates for Pep Guardiola to consider, with special attention to players capable of embodying his cherished Tiki-Taka philosophy.

The Case for Isco

Isco Alassembly, formerly of Real Madrid, offers a compelling alternative to Fernandinho. His small stature and control over the game make him an invaluable asset in the middle of the park, especially under the tutelage of a coach like Pep Guardiola. Isco’s relationship with Solari and his ability to execute Tiki-Taka tactics seamlessly align with Manchester City’s playing style. While Isco’s aging schedule might require more strategic adjustments, his experience and tactical understanding position him as a perfect candidate to step into Fernandinho’s shoes.

Pep Guardiola’s Ambitions: Signing Cristiano Ronaldo

Pep Guardiola, ever the innovator, may pursue a high-risk, high-reward move in signing Cristiano Ronaldo from Juventus. Ronaldo, despite being 34, still possesses a profound impact in the box and excels in set pieces, qualities that Fertrandinho brought to the table. However, Guardiola may not be willing to pay €222.6 million for a midfielder, making the deal highly speculative. Ronaldo’s reduced speed now aligns more with the CDM role, providing great support in both defensive and offensive aspects.

Current Challenges with Manchester City’s CDM Search

Fernandinho, a key figure under Pep Guardiola’s regime, is turning 34 this year, significantly decreasing his stamina and effectiveness in 90-minute stints. Manchester City has already begun their search for a suitable replacement, initially showing interest in Ruben Neves, who was priced at €100m. Given this price, Guardiola is looking for alternatives that fit both the budget and tactical requirements.

Potential Candidates to Replace Fernandinho

Marten de Roon

Don’t underestimate the young Dutchman, Marten de Roon, an integral part of Atalanta’s attacking style. De Roon, now 27, brings a balanced mix of defense and creativity to the midfield. He possesses excellent positioning, defensive skills, and excellent reading of the game. Currently playing for Atalanta, de Roon is already acclimated to Guardiola’s tactical nuances, potentially making him a quick adoption for Manchester City. However, his focus on defense compromises his attacking contributions significantly.

Florian Grillitsch

Austrian talent, Florian Grillitsch, shows promise with his consistency and versatility. In the recent UEFA Champions League match against Manchester City, Grillitsch caught Guardiola’s eye. What sets him apart is his positional flexibility and the young age, which gives him time to adjust and grow. However, spending a season or more adapting to the Premier League could be a concern, and his occasional predictability may require scrutiny.

Amadou Diawara

Amadou Diawara, at just 21, offers immense potential with his physical attributes and tactical understanding. Known for his tackling and interceptions, Diawara can play both sides of the pitch and contributes positively in tight situations. Having Champions League experience, he seems like a praiseworthy prospect. However, his young age and occasional discipline issues could pose challenges in seamlessly joining City’s squad. His transfer fee might also be a deterrent.

Marcelo Brozovi?

Marcelo Brozovi?, a 26-year-old midfielder for Inter Milan, displays a promising future if given the right opportunities. His recent World Cup performance suggests his potential to adapt to a new environment. Brozovi?’s tactical discipline and physicality are attributes that could serve Manchester City well. However, his proven experience and representation by a bigger club could make securing him more challenging.

Conclusion

Replacing Fernandinho with a player who can continue Manchester City’s legacy under Pep Guardiola requires a balanced approach. While Ronaldo offers an immediate attacking boost, his age may limit his effectiveness. The likes of Isco, de Roon, Grillitsch, Diawara, and Brozovi? hold potential, each with their unique strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the choice depends on whether Guardiola prioritizes immediate impact or a more futuristic approach to mid-field management.