Latest update on Real Madrid‘s interest in Ballon d’Or winner Rodri

Despite Real Madrid’s struggles in midfield, even after high-profile signings like Tchouaméni and Camavinga, the Ballon d’Or was awarded to the best midfielder in the world—who, to add salt to the wound, happens to be Spanish and from Madrid.

At 28, Rodri is going through the peak of his career. He is a crucial player for both Guardiola’s Manchester City and De la Fuente’s Spanish national team, and now he has also cemented himself at the top by winning the Ballon d’Or. He’s only the second Spaniard to achieve this honour in football history.

Born in Villanueva de la Cañada, just 39 kilometres from the Bernabéu, the baffling part is that Real Madrid never considered him a potential leader for their team, despite his undeniable talent. The best player in the world is from Madrid, yet doesn’t play for Madrid—an oddity that defies football logic, but one that still has time to be corrected.

Rodri‘s Madrid nod ‘no coincidence’

Rodri’s contract with Manchester City runs until 2027, and he has a lucrative renewal offer on the table. The new deal would place him among the club’s top earners alongside Foden and Haaland, key figures in City’s future.

However, Rodri remains uncertain about his future with City, as the club faces a trial for potential Financial Fair Play violations, which could impact the project significantly. Additionally, sporting director Txiki Begiristain is set to depart, and Guardiola’s future—the coach who shaped Rodri’s rise—is also uncertain.

Madrid are fully aware of these developments and is monitoring the situation closely. Signing Rodri would be a major operation, but it’s increasingly making sense. Moreover, Rodri has strong connections within Madrid’s dressing room. He shares a close friendship with team captain Dani Carvajal, a bond strengthened by their time together with the Spanish national team. Rodri’s nod to Carvajal during his Ballon d’Or speech was no coincidence.

Ancelotti, too, is a fan of Rodri’s style of play. As a former midfielder, Ancelotti understands the importance of having a player like him on the pitch, as well as the rarity of a midfielder winning the Ballon d’Or. Rodri would not only solve many of Madrid’s midfield issues but would also bring immense marketing value: another Ballon d’Or winner playing at the Bernabéu.

Real Madrid’s next game is against Valencia in LaLiga on November 2 at 4:00p.m. ET / 1:00 p.m. PT. After that, they have a game in the Champions League against a Pulisic-led AC Milan. That tie will be played on Tuesday November 5, with kick off at 3:00 p.m. ET / 12:00 p.m. PT.

TUDN will broadcast the two games while Paramount+ is also an option for the former match, to be held at Mestalla on Spain’s east coast. You can also watch Real Madrid live on FuboTV, which offers a free trial.