Rodri’s future has taken a dramatic turn. After months of uncertainty, the Manchester City midfielder is once again one of the most sought-after players in world football. His outstanding performances at the FIFA World Cup completely changed the narrative surrounding his career, with the Spanish international reminding everyone why he is regarded as one of the finest defensive midfielders of his generation. According to reports from Spain, Real Madrid have now intensified their pursuit, and the player has already reached a contractual agreement with the Spanish giants.
Only a few months ago, such a scenario appeared unlikely. Rodri endured a difficult period following the serious knee injury he suffered in September 2024. His recovery was longer than expected, and although he eventually returned to action, questions remained over whether he could reach his previous level. Those doubts have now disappeared. The Spanish captain enjoyed a remarkable World Cup campaign, leading his country with authority and consistency before being crowned the tournament’s Best Player. His performances have reignited interest from Europe’s biggest clubs, with Real Madrid moving to the front of the race.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca addressed the growing speculation during his latest press conference. While acknowledging the constant rumors surrounding elite footballers, the Italian coach insisted that his current focus remains on Rodri’s recovery following a planned medical procedure. Maresca also stressed that the midfielder deserves time to rest before returning to competitive football.
“The best players are always surrounded by transfer rumours, so I’m not worried. I think that’s completely normal, especially after they won the World Cup and because he is one of the best players in the world. I believe every coach would love to have Rodri in their team because he is an exceptional player. But for now, he will undergo surgery on Monday. He needs a holiday, he needs to rest and recover, and then he will return to us.”
Despite Maresca’s reassuring comments, reports from Marca suggest that Real Madrid have made significant progress behind the scenes. The Spanish newspaper claims that Rodri has already reached a personal agreement with Los Blancos regarding the terms of a future contract. While the exact details of the proposed deal have not been disclosed, the reported breakthrough represents a major step forward in one of the summer’s biggest transfer stories. The only obstacle remaining would be an agreement between the two clubs over the transfer fee.
🚨 Rodri has been planning to join Real Madrid for YEARS, even BEFORE he won the Ballon d'Or.
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) July 25, 2026
The player really wants to cement his legacy as an all-time great midfielder, and he believes a move to Real Madrid would be PERFECT for that. @Ramon_AlvarezMM pic.twitter.com/EbPDTJewGH
Negotiations are expected to focus on Manchester City’s asking price. Current reports indicate that a fee in the region of €60 million could be enough to complete the transfer, although discussions are still ongoing. From Real Madrid’s perspective, the timing may be ideal. Rodri’s current contract reportedly expires in just one year, and despite receiving a renewal offer from Manchester City, he has yet to sign an extension. That situation could weaken City’s negotiating position if the player is determined to leave this summer.
Should Rodri officially join Real Madrid, it would mark a symbolic return to the Spanish capital, where he previously spent the 2018–19 season with Atlético Madrid before moving to England. It would also provide José Mourinho with one of the world’s most accomplished midfielders as the club continues to reshape its squad following the World Cup. Although no official agreement between the clubs has been announced, all eyes will now be on the next round of negotiations, which could determine whether one of Europe’s biggest transfer sagas reaches its conclusion in the coming weeks.
