Barcelona has confirmed the signing of Rodri from Manchester City. The deal for the Spain midfielder was valued at £65.4m. Rodri has agreed to a four-year contract with the LaLiga club.
The World Cup winner, who also received the Ballon d’Or, played a key role in City’s success, helping them secure four Premier League titles and a Champions League crown. Rodri had one year remaining on his contract with Manchester City, who had expressed a desire for him to sign an extension. However, Barcelona’s third offer ultimately led to the agreement.
Barcelona’s successful bid followed two earlier offers that were rejected by City. These previous bids were reported to be £40m and £55m.
Mourinho’s Perspective on Rodri
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho commented on Rodri’s decision, stating, “He is an exceptional player and was very respectful towards us. I have nothing negative to say, but Real Madrid have such stature that they cannot have players who ask themselves questions.” Mourinho added that if Real Madrid were to call, the expected reaction from a player should be immediate acceptance.
Despite Rodri’s move to Barcelona, Mourinho maintained a positive view of the player. “He was very respectful towards us. I wish him all the best. Not too much, of course, but I wish him all the best,” Mourinho remarked.
Impact of Rodri’s Departure
Rodri’s departure is considered a significant event for Manchester City and the Premier League. He is regarded as one of the top midfielders of his generation. While City fans had not anticipated his exit just months prior, it became evident after the World Cup that Rodri did not intend to sign a new contract.
City’s record without Rodri in the starting lineup since his arrival from Atletico Madrid before the 2019/20 season provides insight into the team’s performance without him. The rate at which City experienced defeats reportedly doubled when he was not starting. The team’s win percentage also saw a decrease without him, dropping from 71.5 per cent to 62.1 per cent. Additionally, goals scored decreased and goals conceded increased in his absence.
City is actively seeking replacements following Rodri’s transfer and the impending move of Tijjani Reijnders to Al Qadsiah. The club remains interested in Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez and is in discussions with Lille for Ayyoub Bouaddi.
Rodri’s legacy at Manchester City is viewed as substantial, having controlled matches with his understanding of the game, added a goal threat, and become a central figure in one of the Premier League’s top teams. His winning goal in the Champions League final, which secured the treble for City, is a particularly notable achievement.
The midfielder’s move to Barcelona offers him an opportunity to play a less physically demanding style of football, especially after recovering from a serious knee injury. He had reportedly always considered returning to Spain, with both Real Madrid and Barcelona being potential destinations.
Rodri’s departure may affect his standing among some City supporters, particularly those who value players who remain with the club for their entire careers. However, his achievements, including winning the World Cup and being named the tournament’s best player, have cemented his status as a legend in the game.
His exit to Barcelona comes after a period where he missed most of the last two seasons due to a knee injury, during which his reputation grew as City struggled in his absence. The club’s 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Community Shield was cited as a recent example of their struggles without him.
Rodri’s time at City saw him adapt to the English game, adding a more physical approach to his play. His Ballon d’Or win in 2024 was seen by many as deserved recognition for his contributions.
His legacy at City is highlighted by the fact that he scored the winning goal when the team won the Champions League for the first time in their history, delivering the treble.
Source: goal.com