Man City boss Maresca confirms Rodri blow and discusses Real Madrid links, futures of two other players and transfer plans | OneFootball

New Manchester City boss Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Rodri is set to undergo surgery on a back injury following his World Cup triumph with Spain.

The Spaniard is set to miss the start of the season with his club, and has also been linked with a move to Spanish giants Real Madrid this summer.

But Maresca says he is planning for next season with Rodri, whose contract runs out next year.

“First of all, you have to say that around big players, there is always speculation so I’m not worried about that. I think it’s normal,” Maresca said on Rodri’s future.

“Obviously because they won the World Cup, he was the best player or one of the best players, and I think every manager wants to have Rodri because he’s a top player.

“But now, surgery, I think on Monday, and he needs a holiday, he needs rest, he needs to recover, and then he will be back with us.”

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Maresca also addressed the futures of duo Jack Grealish and James Trafford. Grealish spent last season on loan at Everton, while Trafford has been heavily linked with a move to Leeds United.

“Jack at the moment is here, he’s a Man City player,” Marescs said. “If there are players that belong to the club, it’s my duty to try to coach them.

“I have a good relationship with Jack, since I left we also keep in touch, and the reason why is because he has a big heart and he’s a very good guy. Then we’ll see what happens.

“I know James because he was my goalkeeper when I was with the (Manchester City) under-21s. I know James very well.

“When the transfer window is open, anything can happen, so we’ll see. But at the moment he’s one of our goalkeepers.”

City have already brought in midfielder Elliot Anderson for £116m this summer – but Maresca hinted that more new signings are likely.

“I think there is always something to do, because it’s something that we want but it’s also the dynamic of the transfer window,” he said.

“Probably there are a few things to do but we are in the process to do that.”

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