New Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca is not concerned about speculation linking midfielder Rodri with Real Madrid.
Rodri continues to be linked with a move to the Santiago Bernabéu, despite Madrid president Florentino Perez reportedly being concerned by injury issues around the 30-year-old. Coach Jose Mourinho is also said to want a different profile of player in his midfield.
Rodri, who won the Golden Ball for his performances in helping Spain win the World Cup for the second time, is set to undergo surgery on a back problem.
No timetable has been set for his return, but Maresca’s only focus regarding the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner is rehabilitation.
“First of all, we have to say that around big players there is always speculation,” Maresca told his first press conference as City boss.
“So I’m not worried about that, it’s normal, also because they [Spain] won the World Cup – he is one of the best players.
“I think every manager wants to have Rodri, because he’s a top player.
“But now, surgery [on a back problem] on Monday, and then he needs holiday, he needs to rest, recovery, and then he will be back here with us.”
One player who looks set to leave City is goalkeeper James Trafford, who re-joined the club last year but was left frustrated at finding himself second choice after the club then signed Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Leeds United are the favourites for the England goalkeeper’s signature, with long-term admirers Newcastle United having cooled their interest.
“I know James because he was my keeper when I was with the Under-23s, so I know James very good,” Maresca added.
“But again, when the transfer window is open, now or in January, anything can happen. So we’ll see, but at the moment he’s one of our keepers.”
