Manchester City’s midfielder Rodri faces a significant career decision this summer: whether to join Real Madrid or Barcelona if he chooses to leave the Etihad Stadium.
The 29-year-old Spain captain is entering the final year of his contract with Man City and has yet to sign a new deal.
While Real Madrid has long shown interest in the player, two independent sources told BBC Sport on Thursday that La Liga champions Barcelona have now entered the race to secure his signature.
Rodri missed much of the 2023/24 season due to a serious knee injury, and part of the previous season was disrupted by hamstring issues.
However, the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner returned to peak form at this summer’s World Cup, leading Spain to their second title and earning recognition as the tournament’s best player.
Currently, Manchester City are on their preseason tour in the Far East and are set to face Arsenal next Sunday in the FA Community Shield, but Rodri has not yet joined his teammates. Upon his return, he will have a crucial decision to make.
Will he accept the contract offer from Man City, complete the remaining months and become a free agent next summer, or will he take the tempting opportunity to return to his homeland this summer?
A move to Barcelona would see Rodri join the champions of the last two seasons and reunite with his Spanish national teammates Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, and Pedri.
Alternatively, he could reunite with his former Man City teammate Bernardo Silva, who joined Real Madrid this summer on a free transfer.
Since joining Manchester City in 2019, Rodri has won four Premier League titles, the Champions League, and two FA Cups, establishing himself not only as an indispensable player for the club but also as one of the world’s best midfielders.
