Man City handed Rodri replacement verdict as Pep Guardiola told honest truth

 Manchester City midfielder Rodri has been compared to Liverpool-linked and Spain teammate Martin Zubimendi

Spain boss Luis de la Fuente has called Martin Zubimendi the second-best player in the world in his position to Manchester City's Rodri.

Zubimendi scored Spain's winner in their Nations League clash against Denmark on Saturday. The midfielder played a key role in La Roja's European Championship victory in Germany last summer having played in all but three games

The 25-year-old was strongly linked with a summer move to Liverpool, but the move never materialised, and he stayed put at Real Sociedad. Arsenal and Manchester United have also previously been linked.

And De la Fuente has explained what makes Zubimendi so good. The Spanish manager highlighted his calmness and tranquillity.

"I think especially that it was in the second half when we were all playing better, and I don't know if he was better because the whole team was better, or the whole team was better because he was better. In short, I insist, he's always a safe bet, gives you everything you ask for, and he has fantastic talent.

"He doesn't score many goals, but with us, he seems to be starting to get going, so we celebrate that and hopefully this continues. He's a great player. I've already said that for me—you know—that he's one of the best, the second best in the world along with Rodrigo [Rodri].

Rodri is currently out injured for the season after suffering ligament damage during September's 2-2 draw against Arsenal. The Spaniard has had surgery with City boss Pep Guardiola confirming he would be out for a "long time