Midfielder refuses to commit amid contract uncertainty
Rodri has finally broken his silence on his Manchester City future — and the headline is that there isn't one yet. Speaking after Spain's World Cup semi-final win over France, the Ballon d'Or winner made it clear that club matters can wait.
“Right now, as I said before the FIFA World Cup, I have a contract at my club, and it will be something I want to settle when it ends,” he told Diario AS. “Quite important is the challenge [of a Final vs Argentina], we have to think about this. Raising the level will help me make a decision.”
The 30-year-old's current deal runs into next summer, and with little progress reported on an extension, the situation remains as ambiguous as it was before the tournament. City are understandably keen to keep hold of their number 16, but it appears nothing will be resolved until after Spain's campaign concludes.
Real Madrid links persist
Rodri has regularly been linked with a move to Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid and has previously spoken openly about playing at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, according to Spanish media, Los Blancos do not intend to pursue the midfielder this time around.
Following the departure of club legend Bernardo Silva this summer, Enzo Maresca will be determined not to lose further firepower in midfield as his first season in charge approaches. The signing of Elliot Anderson is promising, but Rodri's qualities, seniority and leadership in the dressing room remain indispensable.
Losing the treble winner next summer would be a significant blow. He has spent seven trophy-laden campaigns at the Etihad, collecting 13 honours since his arrival in 2019. Whether he extends his stay beyond next season remains to be seen, and it is unlikely we will receive any further clarity until the World Cup comes to a close.