Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola is targeting a move for Atletico Madrid and Argentina defender Nahuel Molina to address the club’s need for a proven right-back, following the summer departure of iconic defender Kyle Walker.
Man City Target Atletico’s Nahuel Molina to Solve Right-Back Problem
Despite experimenting with current squad members, Guardiola has not found a permanent solution for the right-back position.
Following Walker’s exit after eight seasons and 18 major honours with the club, the manager has been forced to use versatile players like midfielder Matheus Nunes and the promising Rico Lewis in the role.
Guardiola recently acknowledged the difficulty of replacing Walker, stating, “I slept like a baby before games with Kyle there. He can handle top, top-class wingers in the world”.
This has left a void, with reports indicating the right flank has become a weak link opponents can exploit.
According to reports, Manchester City are monitoring Nahuel Molina as a key target. The 27-year-old Argentine international is seen as an ideal candidate with his experience at the highest level.
Molina’s most notable achievement is winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina, where he played in every game during their triumphant campaign. He also has 54 international caps and has won the Copa America twice.
At Atletico Madrid, Molina has found himself on the fringes of the squad recently, making just one start in the Champions League this season.
This situation, combined with his contract having 18 months remaining as of January 2025, has led to a sense that he could be available for an “attainable price,” suggested to be in the region of €20 million.
Guardiola has made it clear he isn’t looking for a Walker clone, explaining, “Kyle has his ability and skills, the others have theirs… they need their own careers here”.
Molina, a player with extensive experience as both a right-back and right-midfielder, represents the profile of a dependable, world-class option who could slot into Guardiola’s system while bringing his own unique qualities.
With the January transfer window approaching, all signs suggest Pep Guardiola and Manchester City are ready to move for the accomplished defender to finally fill their problem position.
