[MyDaily = Reporter Kim Geon-ho] Manchester City is confident it will retain Rodri.
The Daily Mail reported on April 4 (KST) that City expects the Spain international to sign a new contract, despite his comments about a potential move to Real Madrid.
Rodri, who came through Villarreal and had a spell with Atlético Madrid, joined City in July 2019 and has since established himself as one of the world's top midfielders. He was a key figure in City's 2022–23 treble and won the 2024 Ballon d'Or.
He suffered an ACL tear early last season and missed much of the campaign before returning late. He also dealt with a hamstring issue this season but has been a regular starter since his comeback.
His contract runs through the end of next season. With that timeline, Rodri admitted he would find it hard to turn down an offer from Real Madrid, fueling fresh transfer speculation.
But City manager Pep Guardiola said he is confident Rodri will remain at the club. \"I know what the club wants. They told me they want Rodri to stay, stay and stay,\" Guardiola said.
\"I think so. I’ve always felt positive about that. There isn’t a single player who would turn down the chance to play for Real Madrid. He was born in Spain. My hope has always been that Rodri stays at this club as long as possible,\" he added.
\"I think he’s happy. If he’s not, he can knock on sporting director Hugo Viana’s door and accept an offer that matches his huge ability. After that, he wouldn’t be a club player anymore. Over the last game or two, I’ve really felt that he’s back,\" Guardiola said.
