Rodri’s injury forces Manchester City to reassess Bouaddi bid

Manchester City’s midfield plans are likely to shift after Rodri is set for surgery following the World Cup, meaning the Ballon d’Or‑winning midfielder will miss the start of the 2026‑27 season and could force the club to accelerate its pursuit of Lille’s 18‑year‑old Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Rodri remains one of Manchester City’s most important players, a Ballon d’Or‑winning midfielder and a leader at the FA Cup and Carabao Cup‑holding side. Enzo Maresca’s side will rely heavily on him next season, but he is set to make a delayed start.

Jack Gaughan reported for the that Rodri is scheduled for surgery on a mysterious injury sustained after the World Cup. The delayed recovery may force Manchester City’s hand in their bid to sign Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Fabrizio Romano disclosed that Manchester City have held initial talks to sign 18‑year‑old Moroccan sensation Ayyoub Bouaddi, with four clubs also interested. While European champions Paris Saint‑Germain are not among the contenders, City could arrange a loan back to Lille for the 2026‑27 season, with a permanent move to the Etihad planned for 2027‑28.

City need a midfielder who can contribute immediately, not one who would only arrive after a year. Bouaddi’s World Cup displays for Morocco and his proven record at Lille suggest he is ready to step up.

Manchester City recently completed the signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest, confirming their activity in the midfield market. With Rodri set to miss the start of the next season, the club now requires another player who can feature straight away.

The uncertainty surrounding Rodri’s injury could reshape Manchester City’s summer transfer strategy, potentially accelerating the acquisition of Bouaddi. It remains to be seen whether the club will adjust its plans to avoid a midfield gap in the 2026‑27 campaign.