MANCHESTER CITY
Manchester City’s ‘anti-Madrid’ plan for Rodri
The Spanish midfielder is being eyed by the 15-time European champions, with City keen to see him stay in Manchester.
Manchester City’s future appears uncertain as the club faces an impending hearing on 115 cases of Financial Fair Play irregularities. Anticipating potential negative outcomes, the club is focused on safeguarding its squad, with one of its top priorities being the retention of Rodri.
The Spanish midfielder has been instrumental in the club’s recent successes under Pep Guardiola. Although his contract runs until 2027, the club is eager to secure his long-term future amid growing speculation that Real Madrid could make a move for him.
City’s strategy is clear: Rodri is seen as a cornerstone of the team’s project, and the club is prepared to offer him a salary that would position him among the highest earners in Europe. This renewal offer would place him alongside Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland, and Phil Foden in terms of earnings. The latter two are also considered integral to the club’s future, making it difficult for City’s leadership to envision a team without them or Rodri.
Reports say Rodri weighing up his options
According to The Athletic, “it is thought the idea of moving back there during his career does appeal”. While Manchester City remains confident in its ability to keep him, Madrid’s allure—offering not just financial incentives but also lifestyle advantages, such as better weather and proximity to family—could tempt Rodri. Although no other club currently matches City’s financial or sporting ambitions, there has long been a suspicion within the club that Madrid would eventually make a move for him. Now, it seems that time may be approaching.
At a recent PFA gala, where Rodri was named in the ‘Team of the Year’, he expressed his contentment at City: “I am very grateful for the decision I made five years ago to come to Manchester City. Everything seems perfect here, and I am still very happy to be part of this squad, both on and off the pitch. It’s like a family.”
However, as The Athletic points out, Real Madrid may have one factor working in its favor: the ongoing investigation into City’s Financial Fair Play violations. Madrid are reportedly willing to wait and see the outcome of the hearing, with a verdict expected in the new year. Should City be found guilty and face significant sanctions—although the club maintain their innocence—Madrid might see an opportunity to make a serious bid for Rodri.
Real Madrid players, such as Dani Carvajal, have publicly expressed their desire to see Rodri wear the white jersey and play at the Bernabéu. This sentiment has resonated with both clubs, with City realising that Spain’s big clubs are eager to claim one of the nation’s finest players. To counter this, City will need to make a significant effort, including financial measures, to keep their midfield linchpin. But the question remains: will that be enough to retain him?