It is widely known that Barcelona is currently in negotiations with Manchester City regarding Rodri.
The captain of Spain’s World Cup-winning team was on the verge of joining Real Madrid recently but has chosen to join Barcelona instead.
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Although there is still significant progress needed before reaching an agreement with Manchester City, the likelihood of Rodri becoming a Barcelona player next season is growing.
Three Players Likely Affected
De Jong will be significantly affected by Rodri’s potential signing. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
Rodri’s imminent arrival could directly influence the future of several Barcelona midfielders.
A recent piece from Diario SPORT identifies three players particularly affected: Frenkie de Jong, Marc Casado, and Tommy Marques.
De Jong has already frustrated Barcelona due to his prolonged recovery from injury and his choice to forgo surgery, despite making little progress.
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As a competitor to Rodri, De Jong’s position becomes precarious, especially with Rodri’s accolades, making it difficult for him to displace either Rodri or Pedri.
While De Jong still has a chance to secure a place in the squad, Casado’s future appears bleak, and he has been linked with an exit from the club.
Similarly, Marques may face the same fate. Barcelona is reportedly prepared to sell the La Masia talent with a €20 million release clause.
Having someone like Rodri as a mentor could significantly benefit Bernal’s development. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
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Marc Bernal may also be impacted by Rodri’s addition, albeit only temporarily.
Seen as a key figure for Barcelona’s future midfield, Rodri’s mentorship could greatly enhance Bernal’s development.
Rodri could help him incorporate more physicality into his game and increase his situational awareness.
However, in the short term, Bernal may find himself with fewer opportunities in the Barcelona midfield, as he currently ranks fourth in line behind Rodri, Pedri, and De Jong.