Rodri could be the transfer story of the summer at Manchester City, with increasing speculation linking Real Madrid with the midfielder. The 30-year-old recently won the World Cup with Spain and the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, reinforcing his status as one of the world's best players. His form has led to talk of a potential Ballon d'Or winner, having claimed the crown in 2024.
Contract situation and Maresca's comments
City would love to keep their star man at the Etihad and have offered Rodri fresh terms. His current deal expires next summer, leaving the future uncertain. New Blues boss Enzo Maresca said Rodri would "be back with us" when discussing the midfielder in his first press conference last week, adding that he wasn't worried by the transfer talk.
Squad changes and potential additions
City have already lost experienced midfielder Bernardo Silva this summer and are reluctant to lose another leader. The arrival of Elliot Anderson in a club-record £116million deal from Nottingham Forest has strengthened the middle of the park, and the Blues are keen on Lille's £80million teenage star Ayyoub Bouaddi, who would offer another midfield option.
Rodri's impact and decision ahead
At his best, Rodri can make the difference between winning silverware and falling short. His return to full fitness last season coincided with City reeling in Arsenal and beating them at the Etihad before he picked up an injury; the Blues subsequently struggled at Burnley and dropped two costly points at Everton. With the transfer window open for another month, there will be plenty of talk between now and September 1 as City and Rodri face a huge summer decision. A poll asks fans whether Rodri is a keep-at-all-costs player even if he could walk away for nothing in 2027, or if now is the time to cash in with his stock sky high after his World Cup exploits.
