Gonzalez Perfect Fit For ‘Weak’ Man City: Guardiola

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola said the signing of Nico Gonzalez can help the struggling English champions compensate for the loss of Ballon d’Or winner Rodri.

Spanish midfielder Gonzalez arrived from Porto on the final day of the transfer window earlier this week for a reported 60-million-euro fee (£50 million, $62 million).

The 23-year-old’s father Fran previously worked as a coach at City’s academy and Guardiola was also aware of the player’s abilities as he began his career at his former club Barcelona.

City have struggled without Rodri, who suffered a serious knee injury in September.

A run of four consecutive Premier League titles is almost certain to come to an end as they sit 15 points off runaway leaders Liverpool.

City did sneak into the Champions League group stage but now face the might of holders Real Madrid in the play-off round later this month.