Manchester City midfielder Rodri is facing one of the biggest decisions of his career, with both Barcelona and Real Madrid interested in signing the Spain international as he enters the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium.
The 29-year-old is yet to agree fresh terms with City despite previously indicating that his future would be resolved after the 2026 FIFA World Cup. According to BBC Sport, Real Madrid’s long-standing interest remains, while Barcelona have now emerged as serious contenders for the Ballon d’Or winner’s signature.
Although sources close to Barcelona have played down reports of their interest, the Catalan giants are understood to be monitoring Rodri’s situation closely as uncertainty over his contract continues.
Rodri returned to top form during the World Cup after an injury-disrupted campaign, captaining Spain to the title and being named Player of the Tournament. However, he is currently recovering from back surgery and has yet to join Manchester City’s pre-season tour in Asia.
City remain optimistic that Rodri will stay, with club sources insisting they are “counting on” the midfielder for next season. Any club hoping to sign him this summer would also have to meet a significant transfer fee.
A move to Barcelona would reunite Rodri with several Spain teammates, including Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Pau Cubarsรญ and Ferran Torres. Real Madrid, meanwhile, could offer another familiar face following Bernardo Silva’s arrival at the Santiago Bernabรฉu earlier this summer.
Should Rodri decide against signing a new deal, he could also choose to see out his contract and leave City as a free agent next summer, giving him complete control over his future.
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