World Cup winner’s future hangs on Perez decision
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed what many suspected: Rodri dreams of playing for Real Madrid. The Manchester City midfielder, fresh from lifting the World Cup with Spain and collecting the Player of the Tournament award, is open to a move back to the Spanish capital. There is, however, a significant hitch.
The problem is not City. It is Florentino Perez.
Romano reports that the Real Madrid president is not convinced about pursuing Rodri. The 30-year-old came through the youth system at Atletico Madrid, so a switch across town would carry obvious emotional weight. But Perez, the man who ultimately signs off on major deals, has not been won over. Right now, that is the main obstacle blocking the move.
Meanwhile, City have placed a very important offer financially on the table for a 30-year-old who remains one of the best footballers in the world. Rodri is under contract only until 2027. The ball, it seems, is in his court — but only up to a point.
It will now be up to Rodri to decide whether he wants to accept the contract or remain at Man City for one more season before potentially leaving as a free agent in 2027.
That is the choice. Accept a lucrative extension and commit his peak years to the Blues, or run down his deal and wait for a door that may or may not open at the Bernabeu. Perez’s reluctance means Rodri cannot simply force the issue. He would love to join Real Madrid one day — but whether that day comes depends on a president who, for now, is looking the other way.
For City, the situation is straightforward. They have made their offer. The rest is up to Rodri — and, ultimately, Florentino Perez.