Manchester City midfielder Rodri is reportedly becoming an increasingly realistic target for Real Madrid as Pep Guardiola's expected departure reshapes the landscape surrounding one of Europe's most influential players.
The Spanish midfielder has repeatedly been linked with a return to La Liga over recent months, but fresh reports from Spain suggest circumstances around a potential deal may now have shifted significantly.
For years, Guardiola's presence at Manchester City appeared to make any discussion surrounding Rodri's future largely irrelevant. That situation may now be changing.
Pep Guardiola's departure could alter Rodri's future
Real Madrid have reportedly admired Rodri for a considerable period and have explored the possibility of bringing him to the Santiago Bernabeu on several occasions.
Attempts never progressed significantly, largely because of the midfielder's importance at Manchester City and his close relationship with Guardiola.
Now, however, reports indicate Real Madrid believe Guardiola's expected departure could create an opening that previously did not exist.
Having followed Manchester City's development during Guardiola's era, Rodri has arguably become one of the manager's most important tactical figures. His role has extended beyond simply protecting the defence; he has become the platform around which City's control of matches has often been built.
Removing a player of that profile would represent a major change.
Rodri’s profile remains exactly what Real Madrid need
Real Madrid’s search for midfield stability has continued since key changes in recent years and Rodri’s qualities naturally align with several long-term needs.
| Rodri profile | Current status |
|---|---|
| Age | 29 |
| Current club | Manchester City |
| Contract expiry | 2027 |
| Estimated market value | €65m |
Source: market and contract reporting – May 2026
Reports suggest Real Madrid consider Rodri a long-standing target and now believe his willingness to return to Spain could potentially help any future negotiations.
There have also previously been stories surrounding tensions following the Ballon d’Or race involving Vinicius Junior, although reports suggest relations between Rodri and Real Madrid have since improved.
Manchester City unlikely to make any sale straightforward
Even if Rodri were interested in a move, Manchester City would remain in a powerful negotiating position.
The midfielder remains under contract until 2027 and continues to be viewed as one of the club's most important players.
Reports suggest City are not considering an easy exit, meaning any deal would likely require both significant finances and clear player intent.
Key Points
- Rodri is reportedly open to joining Real Madrid
- Pep Guardiola's expected exit may influence the situation
- Real Madrid have tracked Rodri for several years
- Manchester City are not expected to facilitate an easy sale
- Rodri remains under contract until 2027
What's next?
While reports suggest Real Madrid are increasingly attentive, any concrete movement may not arrive immediately.
Current indications suggest developments are more likely after the World Cup rather than during the early stages of the summer window. Manchester City's managerial transition could also influence future decisions regarding key players.
For now, Real Madrid's long-standing admiration appears unchanged, but turning interest into an agreement remains a very different challenge.
Would Rodri become the perfect midfield leader for Real Madrid, or should Manchester City do everything possible to keep him?
0 Comments
First read message
Leave a comment
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *