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Guardiola has stated he won’t discuss Rodri’s recent comments on possibly joining Real Madrid.
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The City manager recognizes that no player would refuse an opportunity to play for Real Madrid.
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Guardiola hopes Rodri will remain at the Etihad Stadium for as long as possible.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola confirmed he will not address Rodri regarding his controversial remarks during a radio interview, where he hinted at the possibility of joining Real Madrid.
Rodri raised eyebrows among City supporters during the international break after admitted he couldn’t rule out a move to the Santiago Bernabeu during an appearance on the Spanish radio station Onda Cero, prompting significant reactions from the Etihad Stadium.
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The 29-year-old midfielder is nearing the final year of his contract with Manchester City and has yet to finalize negotiations for a new deal. The club is reportedly in the process of making a formal contract offer to the Spain international in recent weeks.
Insights: Manchester City officials’ perspective on Rodri and a potential transfer to Real Madrid
Guardiola: No player would refuse Real Madrid
During a press conference just before Manchester City’s impressive 4-0 victory over Liverpool in the FA Cup quarter-finals, Guardiola was asked if he intended to speak with Rodri about the interview.
“No, no, what Chelsea did (in relation to Enzo Fernandez) is Chelsea’s decision,” he stated. “I don’t believe there’s a player who would turn down the chance to play for Madrid, and I completely understand, considering he was born in Spain.
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“My wish is always that Rodri stays here for as long as possible because he is an incredible and top player. However, life is life for everyone.
“I know he has demonstrated his loyalty and commitment to this club over the years, and his contributions have been enormous. I feel that in the last couple of games, he has found his best form again, and that’s my only concern.”
Context of Rodri’s Future
Rodri joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2019 and has since solidified his reputation as one of the best holding midfielders in the world. He made history with City by becoming the first player in the club’s history to win the Ballon d’Or in 2024.
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Following his radio interview, the midfielder subsequently clarified his remarks, stating they were taken out of context by those who heard only snippets on social media instead of the entire interview.
Manchester City Transfer Tracker: Live Updates on Signings, Contracts, and Loans
Real Madrid is reportedly keeping a close eye on his contract situation, although reports indicate that their interest has cooled somewhat following a specific performance.
City officials are preparing for next season with the expectation that Rodri will remain, but they are also ready to consider selling him if he pushes for a summer exit instead of risking losing him for free in 2027.
The Madrid-born player is believed to have a desire to return to his hometown as he approaches the second half of his career. For the time being, however, his manager remains focused on maximizing his potential on the pitch.