Manchester City’s director of football, Hugo Viana, has expressed confidence that the club’s newly signed midfield trio—Enzo Fernandez, Elliot Anderson, and Ayyoub Bouaddi—can fill the void left by the departures of Rodri and Bernardo Silva. The three players were acquired for a combined total of £327 million during the recent transfer window as part of a broader squad restructuring following the exit of manager Pep Guardiola and several key players.

Rodri, a Spain World Cup winner, transferred to Barcelona, while Bernardo Silva joined Real Madrid. Their departures mark a significant shift for City, as the pair collectively contributed to the club’s dominance in English and European football, winning 10 Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy during their time at the Etihad Stadium.

Viana acknowledged the challenge posed by losing two midfield stalwarts who helped define the club’s success over the past decade. However, he emphasized the trust the club has placed in the new signings, highlighting their quality, character, and mentality as key attributes that mirror those of their predecessors.

Enzo Fernandez, signed from Chelsea for a British-record transfer fee of £125 million, has already impressed during his first few weeks with Manchester City, with Viana suggesting he has quickly adapted to the squad. Anderson, acquired from Nottingham Forest for £116 million, joined the club two months ago and is expected to develop into a long-term asset, with City anticipating he will remain a key player for five to seven years. Meanwhile, 18-year-old Morocco international Bouaddi, bought from Lille for £86 million, is seen as the club’s future option for the position once held by Rodri.

Viana described Bouaddi as having "a very high ceiling," indicating strong belief in the young player’s potential to become an important figure in the midfield. The club specifically targeted Bouaddi to address a crucial role in the team, underscoring City’s strategic approach in this transfer period.

Overall, Viana conveyed optimism that the trio will not only meet the expectations set by Rodri and Silva’s contributions but eventually emerge as integral components in Manchester City’s continued pursuit of domestic and international success.