Rodri refuses to rule out Real Madrid switch

March 27, 2026 Oliver Obel

Manchester City midfielder Rodri has indicated he would be open to a future move to Real Madrid, despite his past with city rivals Atletico Madrid, as uncertainty grows around his long-term future in England.

The 29-year-old Spain international, whose current contract runs until next summer, said he expects to hold discussions with City but also acknowledged a broader ambition to eventually return to Spain.

While no immediate transfer appears likely, Rodri made clear that past allegiances would not necessarily stand in the way of joining one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

Speaking to Spanish media, he pointed to previous examples of players crossing the Madrid divide.

“There have been many players who've gone down that path,” Rodri said. “Not immediately, but over time. For me, you can't turn down the best clubs in the world.”

BBC Sport has reported that players including Thibaut Courtois and Alvaro Morata have represented both Atletico and Real Madrid during their careers, underlining that such moves, while sensitive, are not unprecedented.

Rodri added that there has been no direct contact from Real Madrid regarding a potential move.

“I don't know they don't talk to me directly. They'd talk to my agent,” he said when asked about reported interest from club president Florentino Perez.

Contract talks and City legacy

Since arriving from Atletico Madrid in 2019, Rodri has become a cornerstone of Pep Guardiola’s side, playing a central role in one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.

He has won 12 major trophies with City, including four Premier League titles and the Champions League, establishing himself as one of the most influential midfielders in European football.

However, with his contract entering its final year, questions around his next step are beginning to surface.

Rodri recently returned from an anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered in 2024 and has made 18 league appearances this season, continuing to anchor City’s midfield.

Spain ambitions remain in focus

Beyond club football, Rodri remains a key figure for Spain and has been included in the squad for upcoming friendlies against Serbia and Egypt.

With 59 international caps, he played a pivotal role in Spain’s European Championship triumph in 2024, following their Nations League success the year before.

As the next World Cup approaches, his priority appears to remain on maintaining fitness and form, even as speculation about his club future intensifies.

For now, Rodri’s situation reflects a balance between loyalty to Manchester City and openness to new opportunities including, potentially, a return to La Liga with one of its most prominent sides.

Sources: BBC Sport, Spanish media