Rodri has chosen to join Barcelona rather than Real Madrid as his seven-year career at Manchester City draws to a close. The Spain captain, who enters the final year of his contract, has given Barcelona permission to open talks with City following a direct phone call with manager Hansi Flick.
The race for one of world football’s most coveted midfielders has taken a dramatic turn. After weeks of intense speculation linking the Manchester City star to the Santiago Bernabéu, Rodri informed Real Madrid that his preferred destination upon leaving English football is their Catalan rivals, according to extensive reporting across European outlets.
The 30-year-old midfielder, who lifted the 2024 Ballon d’Or and recently captained Spain to World Cup glory in North America, stands in the final twelve months of his agreement at the Etihad Stadium. While Real Madrid maintained an active dialogue with City since the previous week and prepared a financial proposal, internal hesitation and a failure to close negotiations quickly enough opened the door for Barcelona to seize the initiative.
How Flick’s Phone Call and National Team Ties Turned the Tide
The decisive breakthrough for the Camp Nou club arrived via a personal phone conversation between Rodri and Barcelona head coach Hans-Dieter Flick. The German tactician outlined the midfielder’s tactical role within the Blaugrana’s ongoing project, convincing the player that Catalonia offered the ideal stylistic fit.
Stylistic alignment heavily influenced the player’s preference. Furthermore, the presence of several Spanish national team colleagues — including Pedri, Gavi, and Dani Olmo — created a strong dressing-room affinity that helped sway his decision away from Madrid.
“Out of respect for Madrid, as they have been class, Rodri informed them that his decision is to join Barça.”
Pablo Barquero, Rodri’s agent
Transfer Fee Standoffs and Valuation Gaps Between Rivals
With personal terms fully agreed on a contract running until the summer of 2030 featuring an annual salary reported at 15 million euros, the two clubs must bridge a significant valuation gap. Barcelona initiated official club-to-club discussions by submitting an opening proposal structured around 45 million euros in fixed payments plus 15 million euros in add-ons.
Manchester City, however, have set their asking price firmly between 65 million and 70 million euros, making it clear they will reject the initial bid. While City historically avoid standing in the way of players wishing to depart — a philosophy persisting from the Guardiola era — internal management under Enzo Maresca considers the midfielder nearly indispensable.
| Club | Reported Proposal / Valuation | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Real Madrid | Previously discussed around €40m to €50m; considered raising to €60m | Pursuit stalled; growing pessimism within the club |
| FC Barcelona | €45m fixed plus €15m add-ons; internal cap around €50m-€60m | Official talks underway after player green light |
| Manchester City | Valued at €65m–€70m (£50m–£60m) | Expecting to reject opening bid; prefers contract renewal |
Manchester City’s Contingency Plans and English Reaction
Pundits Urge City to Hold Firm
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In England, analysts and former players have strongly questioned the wisdom of parting with the reigning world player of the year. Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher voiced strong opposition to any bargain sale during a broadcast appearance.
“£40-50m? If you’re Manchester City, what’s the point in selling them? You might as well just keep them for the extra year.”
Jamie Carragher, Sky Sports pundit
Internal Alternative Options
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