In the high-stakes world of football transfers, few players command as much attention as Manchester City’s Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder, Rodri. The 28-year-old Spaniard, widely regarded as one of the finest defensive midfielders in the game, has once again found himself at the center of a transfer tug-of-war. Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has reignited his pursuit of the Manchester City star, viewing him as the ideal successor to the retired Toni Kroos. However, Rodri has made his stance clear, opting to remain loyal to the Premier League champions, where he continues to thrive under Pep Guardiola’s guidance.
Rodri’s meteoric rise has been nothing short of extraordinary. Since joining Manchester City from Atlético Madrid in 2019, he has become the linchpin of Guardiola’s midfield, orchestrating play with composure and tenacity. His standout 2023-24 season saw him anchor City to a record fourth consecutive Premier League title, while also playing a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph. His crowning achievement came in October 2024, when he clinched the Ballon d’Or, edging out Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior—a decision that sparked controversy and prompted Real Madrid to boycott the ceremony. Despite the drama, Rodri remained gracious, stating, “It’s a decision that a person or a club have their reasons to take, and I don’t want to give it more importance.”
Real Madrid’s interest in Rodri is hardly new. Perez has long admired the Madrid-born midfielder, seeing him as the missing piece in a star-studded squad that includes Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, and Kylian Mbappé. Reports suggest Perez views Rodri’s signing as both a sporting coup and a symbolic victory over Manchester City, a key rival in European competition. “When Real Madrid, the best club in history, the most successful, call you, it is an honour and you always have to pay attention,” Rodri acknowledged in a recent interview, reflecting on the allure of his hometown club. Yet, he quickly reaffirmed his commitment to City, adding, “I’m happy in England and at City where I have helped Pep win a Champions League title and four Premier League crowns.”
The timing of Real Madrid’s renewed pursuit coincides with Rodri’s recovery from a serious knee injury. In September 2024, he tore his ACL during a 2-2 draw against Arsenal, sidelining him for much of the season. Despite his absence, Manchester City have leaned heavily on his legacy, though their form has faltered, with the team sitting second in the Premier League, five points behind Liverpool. Rodri remains optimistic about City’s resilience, noting, “It’s clear that we are going through a negative spell. If there’s a team that has shown that it can bounce back, it’s our team.” His focus is firmly on recovery, with a target return before the season’s end to compete in the Club World Cup.
Manchester City, aware of Real Madrid’s interest, have moved swiftly to secure Rodri’s future. The club initiated talks to extend his contract, which runs until 2027, offering a significant salary increase to make him one of their highest-paid players. This move not only underscores Rodri’s importance but also sends a clear message to Perez that prising him away from the Etihad will be no easy feat. Sources indicate that City would demand a transfer fee well above €130 million, a sum that could deter even Real Madrid’s ambitious president.
Rodri’s decision to stay is also influenced by Guardiola’s recent contract extension through 2027. “It is a joy that Pep has decided to continue,” Rodri said, praising the coach who has shaped his career. For now, the Spaniard remains focused on his rehabilitation and returning to the pitch, dismissing transfer speculation with characteristic poise. While Real Madrid’s interest flatters him, Rodri’s heart lies with Manchester City, where he continues to write his legacy as one of football’s brightest stars.