The future of Manchester City midfielder Rodri Hernandez is dominating the closing stages of the summer transfer window, with his next destination reportedly caught between Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Rodri had appeared to be heading towards Real Madrid after winning the 2026 World Cup’s best player award, but Barcelona are understood to be monitoring the situation in case the Spain international decides he wants to wear the club’s famous blaugrana shirt.
According to Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo, French content creator Riles has offered his view on the uncertainty surrounding Rodri in a recent video. Riles has a large following on YouTube and is connected with some French players at Real Madrid.
He expressed disappointment at the possibility that Rodri could join Barcelona instead of moving to the Spanish capital.
“Rodri is supposed to rule out Real Madrid, and I fear it is because of Barcelona. I fear that Rodri has let Real Madrid down, and the reason is Barcelona,” said Riles.
He then claimed the delay could be linked to Barcelona’s efforts to establish whether a deal would be possible.
“What I am telling you does not come from Madrid, but I am confident about this. There is a theory that the reason for all this delay is to explore the possibility of registering at Barcelona. I am 99% certain that Rodri has let us down for Barcelona,” he added.
Riles went on to say he had received information suggesting Rodri had chosen Barcelona, while acknowledging that he hoped the report would prove incorrect.
“Rodri would choose Barcelona. I hope I am wrong, that is all I have to say. I have received exclusive information that Rodri has chosen Barcelona, and I hope I am not wrong,” the French YouTuber said.
The claims have not been presented as an official announcement from Rodri, Manchester City, Real Madrid or Barcelona. They instead reflect information and opinion shared by Riles, as reported by Mundo Deportivo, during a period of heightened speculation over the midfielder’s future.
Rodri remains under contract at Manchester City until 2027. The club value the proposed transfer at between 60m and 65m euros.
For now, the midfielder’s situation remains unresolved, with Real Madrid reportedly fearing that Barcelona could emerge as his preferred destination. The possibility of Rodri choosing the Catalan club has added further uncertainty to the final hours of the summer transfer window.
