Pep Guardiola will discuss the possibility of Manchester City signing a new midfielder in the January transfer window.
Playing their part in a modern classic last weekend, the defending champions, who hosted Arsenal at the Etihad Stadium, came within touching distance of losing.
Arsenal haven’t beaten City away since January 2015 but very nearly did last weekend.
Erling Haaland gave the home team an early lead but goals from Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel saw the Gunners complete a surprising first-half comeback.
Leandro Trossard was shown a red card moments before the half-time break which changed the tie.
The Belgium international’s dismissal forced Mikel Arteta to take a defensive approach, and had it not have been for John Stones’ 99-minute equaliser, would have outsmarted Guardiola; his former mentor.
The Cityzens’ late rescue means they sit top of the table as they push for what would be their ninth Premier League title.
Pep Guardiola considering emergency Rodri replacement
However, despite the team’s celebrations, there are major concerns behind the scenes after it was confirmed that midfielder Rodri, who came off injured after just 21-minutes, has suffered a serious knee injury which could keep him out for most of the season.
Consequently, according to a recent report from HITC, the 2022-23 Champions League winners are now considering signing a replacement for the Spain international.
Next month’s international break will see the club’s decision-makers come together and plan their approach to the January transfer window.
Mateo Kovacic and John Stones among possible options
With one of football’s most stacked squads, City certainly have options. Mateo Kovacic is a natural replacement but there are question marks over the 30-year-old’s ability to start week-in week-out.
John Stones also has experience of playing in defensive midfield but moving him from centre-back risks weakening the backline.
Kalvin Phillips joined Ipswich Town on a season-long loan earlier in the summer and is no longer an option to replace his stricken teammate.
Either way, with much uncertainty over Rodri, who is one of the favourites to win this year’s Ballon d’Or, Guardiola will be pushing the Cityzens to make at least one new signing — the next thing to work out will be who, and for how much.