Rodri has declined to rule out joining Real Madrid in the future when addressing speculation linking him with the La Liga giants while on international duty.
The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner has established himself as a pivotal figure in Pep Guardiola’s squad since arriving at the Etihad in 2019.
“You can’t turn down the best clubs in the world,” Rodri stated when pressed about potential interest from the Bernabeu.
He praised the Spanish club’s passionate fanbase and described their stadium as “very imposing.”
Rodri expressed a clear wish to eventually return to his homeland, acknowledging that La Liga remains close to his heart as the competition where his career began.
“I would like to return, yes, obviously,” he told Spanish radio station Onda Cero.
The midfielder spent time at Atletico Madrid before his move to England, but he insisted this history would pose no barrier to potentially crossing the city divide to join their fierce rivals.
Rodri explained: “There have been many players who have gone down that path. Not directly, but over time.”
Rodri has declined to dismiss the possibility of joining Real Madrid in the future
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Real Madrid have reportedly shown considerable interest in the Spain international, particularly following his Ballon d’Or triumph.
Rodri’s current deal at Manchester City runs until 2027, leaving the club facing a potentially awkward situation should he enter his final contract year without an extension this summer.
The midfielder confirmed that negotiations over a new agreement are not currently taking place.
Discussions had been postponed while he focused on recovering from a cruciate ligament injury in his knee.
Rodri won the Ballon d’Or ahead of Vinicius Jr |
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The Spanish midfielder added: “I have one year remaining on my contract. There will be a point when we will have to sit down and talk and have a dialogue.”
He emphasised that his immediate priority lies with regaining full fitness rather than addressing his contractual future, particularly with a World Cup on the horizon.
Rodri’s season was significantly disrupted by the serious knee injury, but he suggested the enforced absence may have provided unexpected benefits given the demanding nature of modern football schedules.
He added: “It was good for me to rest, to slow down. Mentally, there was a lot of wear and tear. It has allowed me to recharge my batteries and come back with tremendous enthusiasm.”
Rodri has experienced success at both domestic and international levels
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PAThe midfielder noted that reduced playing time this campaign has left him feeling considerably fresher than in previous seasons.
“I feel like I’m returning to be the Rodri we want,” he added, expressing confidence in his recovery ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
The 29-year-old has already achieved silverware this season by defeating Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final last Sunday, adding to his impressive haul since joining Manchester City.
The Ballon d’Or winner has been a key part of Pep Guardiola’s side, which won four consecutive league titles in the 2020-21, 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24 seasons.
