Rodri talks about why he said no to Real Madrid and says yes to a summer move that could earn him £25m a year.
Rodri has officially told Real Madrid that he prefers to join Barcelona, according to reports from Spain. This could be one of the biggest transfers this summer.
The 30-year-old midfielder, who has been linked with leaving Manchester City, recently received a big financial offer from Real Madrid. He even talked with their directors, but after careful thought, he has clearly chosen to move to Barcelona instead.
Spanish newspaper AS reports that Rodri explained to Real Madrid why he prefers Barcelona. He mentioned the way they play, the influence of Pep Guardiola’s legacy, and his stronger connection with the players at the Catalan club. Real Madrid understood his reasons and wished him the best.
On Thursday, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano said Rodri has already spoken with Barcelona’s sporting director Deco and coach Hansi Flick about the move. Rodri has given Barcelona the green light to continue the talks. Romano added, “An official contract offer is already with Rodri’s agent, and Barcelona has also reached out to Manchester City.”
RMC Sport’s Fabrice Hawkins adds that Barcelona has been interested in Rodri for a long time. They think he fits perfectly with Flick’s style of play. Now, the club just needs to find the money to make the deal happen. Hawkins says an offer between €60 and €70 million (£51m-£59m) might be enough to convince City.
Rodri has said before that he wants to play in Spain’s top league again, seven years after leaving Atletico Madrid for the Premier League. Speaking to Spanish radio Onda Cero before the World Cup, he said, “I would like to return to LaLiga, yes, of course. It’s where I started. I still watch it, maybe not as much as before, but I keep up with it. Right now, though, I’m happy here. I have one year left on my City contract, so eventually we will have to sit down and talk.”
Rodri is ready to say goodbye to Manchester City after seven successful years. He has played 298 matches for the club in all competitions.