Man City Opinion: Why should Cityzens revive interest in Inigo Martinez?
Manchester City don’t have big things to do in the current transfer window after acquiring Rodri from Atletico Madrid, thus sorting out a successor for the ageing Fernandinho.
Yet, defensive reinforcements need to be looked by Pep Guardiola following the departure of Vincent Kompany.
Aymeric Laporte has ingrained his position as an indispensable starter but the real concerns are with his partner John Stones, who remains unsettled since his move to Etihad in 2016.
Going forward, Guardiola should look for a high quality-centre-back, who is as good as Kompany if not better. Inigo Martinez, City’s former target (h/t Telegraph), fits the bill and there is no better time than now to revive interest in the Spaniard.
Is Inigo Martinez the right man to replace Kompany?
Martinez has been at the heart of the defence for Real Sociedad over the course before he opted to move to Athletic Bilbao in 2018.
During his time at La Real, the Spaniard notched more than 200 appearances, spanning over six seasons. The 28-year-old has made 51 appearances for Athletic club until now. His successful season the last time earned him a call-up from the Spanish national team for the Euro Qualifiers.
Martinez enjoyed a decent season with Athletic club the last term, completing a pass success percentage of around 80 and helping his side manage 10 clean sheets, the fourth-highest in the La Liga.
Furthermore, he possesses attributes like playing precise long balls under pressure and sheer concentration, thus making him a tailor-made option for Guardiola’s style of play.
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His wealthy amount of experience in Spain’s top tier will also be of great use to lead the Cityzens’ defence.
Final Verdict
Cityzens have to make up for the loss of Belgian international Kompany in due time. Though it looks a difficult one, they certainly can count on Martinez, considering his experience and style of play.