Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is reportedly keen to sign Inter Milan midfielder Hakan Calhanoglu as a reinforcement for the winter transfer window, specifically to cover for the sidelined Rodri. This move has gained traction following City’s recent struggles in the Premier League without their influential Spanish midfielder, who suffered a serious knee injury in late September. Rodri, a pivotal figure in Guardiola’s tactical setup, was ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a torn anterior cruciate ligament sustained against Arsenal. The void left by the Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder has been evident in City’s performances, with the team recording consecutive league defeats after a promising start to the campaign.
Manchester City’s blistering beginning to the 2024-25 Premier League season saw them win seven out of their first nine fixtures, establishing themselves as early favorites for another title under Guardiola’s leadership. However, the absence of Rodri in recent matches has highlighted their dependence on his presence in the heart of midfield. Without his defensive solidity, passing range, and ability to control the tempo of games, City have appeared vulnerable, culminating in back-to-back losses that have raised concerns about their title credentials.
Guardiola’s interest in Calhanoglu reflects a pragmatic approach to addressing this issue. According to reports from Spain, the City boss has identified the experienced Turkish international as an ideal candidate to fill the gap. Calhanoglu, who currently plies his trade with Inter Milan, is renowned for his exceptional vision, precise passing, and powerful long-range shooting. These attributes make him a valuable asset in dictating play and creating chances, while also offering a goal threat from midfield—traits that Guardiola believes can mirror some of Rodri’s offensive qualities.
Manchester City are reportedly prepared to make a €45 million (£37 million) offer for Calhanoglu in January. While Inter Milan are understandably reluctant to part with one of their key players, the potential for a substantial transfer fee could sway negotiations, especially considering Calhanoglu is approaching his 31st birthday. This strategic move could prove crucial for City, not only to stabilize their midfield but also to maintain their pursuit of silverware on multiple fronts as the season progresses.
Despite the differences in style and intensity between the Premier League and Serie A, Guardiola reportedly has confidence in Calhanoglu’s ability to quickly adapt to City’s fast-paced, possession-oriented game. Guardiola’s confidence is rooted in the Turkish international’s extensive experience at the top level of European football, having represented clubs such as AC Milan and Inter with distinction. His technical proficiency and tactical intelligence could make him a valuable addition to a City side that thrives on fluid movement and intricate passing.
Interestingly, this pursuit of Calhanoglu appears to have influenced City’s decision to step back from other midfield targets. Reports suggest that Guardiola has ended his interest in Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong, citing dissatisfaction with the Dutchman’s recent performances. This shift in focus underscores the belief that Calhanoglu’s skill set is a better fit for City’s immediate needs.
City’s recent struggles were highlighted in their 2-1 defeat to Brighton, a match that exposed their vulnerabilities without Rodri anchoring the midfield. Former Tottenham and Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp, now a pundit for Sky Sports, did not hold back in his assessment of City’s performance. Redknapp described the second half against Brighton as “one of the worst halves of football” he had witnessed from a Guardiola-managed team. “They were abject,” he remarked. “They didn’t defend, they didn’t win individual battles, they didn’t pass the ball forwards.” Redknapp’s harsh critique reflected the frustration of City fans and neutrals alike, who have come to expect a high standard from the reigning champions.
Redknapp pointed out that City’s first-half display was more in line with their usual dominance, suggesting they could have been comfortably ahead by halftime. However, the lack of composure and leadership in the second half, exacerbated by the absence of Rodri, led to their undoing. He further highlighted issues in City’s defensive setup, particularly the unfamiliar partnership between Josko Gvardiol and Jahmai Simpson-Pusey. “It was very difficult; they’re not a regular partnership, and you could see it,” Redknapp observed, underscoring the defensive disarray that plagued City’s performance.
Guardiola’s search for a solution is urgent. Calhanoglu’s potential arrival could offer the stability and creativity needed to restore City’s midfield dominance and reduce their defensive frailties. While it remains to be seen whether the transfer will materialize, City’s pursuit of the Turkish midfielder signals their determination to address the challenges posed by Rodri’s absence and maintain their status as a Premier League powerhouse. For Guardiola, finding the right balance will be key to reigniting City’s title challenge and ensuring their campaign does not derail in the coming months.