Enzo Maresca has shared his thoughts on Rodrigo's exit from Manchester City to Barcelona. The Spanish midfielder finalised his transfer on Tuesday for a fee of £65.4 million.
Maresca, who is well-acquainted with Rodrigo from his time on Pep Guardiola's coaching staff, emphasised that any manager would relish having such a player in their ranks:
Rodrigo is a top player. Every club and every manager would want to work with him for this very reason.
However, it was no longer possible for us to continue together, and it is completely normal for the player to choose a different path. We are now in a period of change. With Rodrigo, Bernardo Silva, John Stones, Nathan Ake – we'll see what else happens before the transfer window closes.
City's head coach also expressed his gratitude towards the Spaniard for his years at the club:
The fans and the entire club are thankful to Rodrigo. I believe this situation is beneficial for both parties. The club is grateful to Rodrigo, and Rodrigo should be thankful to the club and the fans. Everyone comes out on top.
Following the departure of the 30-year-old midfielder, Manchester City is now in the market for reinforcements in the middle of the park. One of the possible candidates to replace Rodrigo is Ayoub Bouaddi, a midfielder from Lille.
