Manchester City could face a far more complicated rebuilding process if Rodri completes a move to Real Madrid, with the Spain midfielder emerging as one of the leading players who may leave following the end of Pep Guardiola’s managerial era.
Real Madrid are reportedly confident they can sign the World Cup-winning Spain captain before the summer transfer window closes, a move that would deprive Enzo Maresca of a central part of his new project and leave Manchester City facing another major structural challenge.
Rodri’s departure would represent a significant blow for City, who have already lost several key figures as the Guardiola period came to an end. The midfielder has been one of the most consistent and influential players in the squad in recent years, and his possible exit could force the club to reshape one of the most important areas of the team.
Real Madrid’s interest in the player has been revived by his consistently high level of performance. The Spanish club had already considered Rodri a long-term target and now believe the timing may be right to complete a deal.
A key factor is the midfielder’s contract situation. Rodri has only one year remaining on his Manchester City agreement, which could give Real Madrid a stronger position in negotiations and make either this summer or the next an ideal opportunity to secure his signature.
The player’s previous comments about returning to Spain have also encouraged the Spanish club. During the international break in March, Rodri was asked whether he would like to play in Spain again.
“Would I like to play in Spain again? Yes, of course I would like to return,” he told reporters.
When asked specifically about the possibility of joining Real Madrid, he added: “You cannot turn down an offer from one of the best clubs in the world.”
Those comments are likely to reinforce the belief at Real Madrid that Rodri could be open to a return to his home country. The club’s confidence is understood to be based on both his contract position at Manchester City and his previously expressed desire to play in Spain again.
Inside City, there is already a sense that the conclusion of Guardiola’s reign could lead to further departures among the club’s established stars. Rodri is considered one of the most prominent names in that group.
His potential transfer would therefore come at a particularly delicate moment. Manchester City are entering a new phase after the close of the Guardiola era, while Maresca’s project would potentially lose one of its most important components before it has properly taken shape.
Real Madrid believe they can complete the deal before the summer window shuts on 1 September. If that happens, City would have to respond to the loss of another key pillar after already seeing a number of senior figures depart.
Rodri’s possible exit was reported by Goal.
