Rodri has been linked with Real Madrid for months, but there are increasing indications that his future will remain linked to Manchester City. The English club wants to keep one of the midfield leaders, and talks regarding a new contract are heading in the right direction.

Rodri closer to a new contract than a transfer

Manchester City is working on extending Rodri’s contract. The Spanish midfielder has become one of the most important players in Pep Guardiola’s team in recent years, which is why the club does not want to allow the topic of his departure to gain momentum.

Although the midfielder has been linked with Real Madrid, there have been no specific talks on this matter yet. City is taking advantage of this moment and trying to close the topic of the player’s future before the interest from Spain turns into real action.

Real Madrid was monitoring the Spaniard’s situation

There were regular reports about Rodri about a possible move to Madrid. This is not surprising, because we are talking about a player with a profile that would fit into any big club. He can control the pace of the game, secure the midfield and give the team balance in the most difficult matches.

At this stage, however, Manchester City has the advantage. Negotiations on a new contract are expected to lead to an agreement, and unless there is a sudden turnaround, Rodri should remain at the Etihad Stadium.

The Golden Ball and a difficult return after injury

In 2024, Rodri received the Ballon d’Or, which confirmed his position in world football. Shortly before receiving the award, however, he tore his cruciate ligament, and this injury had a major impact on his subsequent months.

The return to full fitness was not without problems. The Spaniard struggled with ailments of varying severity, which made it more difficult for him to regain his pre-injury form. Despite this, City still see him as a strategic player.

Guardiola wants to retain experience in midfield

For Guardiola, Rodri’s stay is of great importance also due to the planned changes in the squad. The departure of Bernardo Silva would mean the loss of one of the most experienced players, so the club needs leaders who will maintain the quality and stability of the team.

Rodri meets these conditions. He knows the system, has authority in the locker room and can organize the game in the most important zone of the pitch. Even if last season wasn’t ideal for him in terms of health, his importance to Manchester City remains huge.

Manchester City wants to close an important topic

In the current competition, Rodri played 31 matches and scored two goals. However, the numbers do not reflect his influence on the team, because in his case the most important things are control, positioning and decisions made under pressure.

Extending the contract would be a clear signal that Manchester City does not intend to weaken the foundations of the team. For Real Madrid, however, it would mean that, at least for now, one of the most desirable defensive midfielders in the world will remain out of reach.