How Real Madrid's chase for Rodri threatens City’s title bid

Real Madrid have opened talks with Manchester City to sign Spanish midfielder Rodri this summer, according to talkSPORT. With only one year remaining on his contract, the Spanish international could leave the Etihad Stadium. No fee has been disclosed, but the potential exit threatens City’s Premier League ambitions.

The interest follows Rodri’s standout World Cup with Spain, where he was described as the world’s best player. Adam Catterall highlighted that the tournament showed he is back at his very best after a previous injury. The Spanish midfielder is also the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner.

Manchester City would like to retain Rodri for the upcoming season even if he does not sign a new deal at the Etihad Stadium. However, with only one year remaining, it is understood that Rodri wants to move to Madrid. City’s manager Enzo Maresca said the club must wait to see if it will have to do without him.

If Lille star Ayyoub Bouaddi were to sign for City, the club could be more inclined to sanction Rodri’s exit. The potential addition adds a further dimension to the transfer calculus, according to talkSPORT analysis.

“Hot Rod, there’s a lot of chat about Rodri, at the moment, off the back of his fantastic World Cup with Spain,” said Adam Catterall on Saturday. He added that a move to Real Madrid “will scupper any chances that Manchester City have of winning the Premier League.” Former defender Ashley Williams agreed, stating “If it’s him… the best player in the world right now, Rodri… at no point would you ever, ever get rid of Rodri, for no amount of money.”

Enzo Maresca clarified that the situation is still speculation and confirmed Rodri had minor back surgery last Monday, after which he is expected to return following his holiday. He noted that everything was fine after a few days off.

The broader market context shows Real Madrid actively pursuing the midfielder while City weigh the impact of a possible Bouaddi signing. If the deal goes through, City could rule themselves out of the Premier League title race this season, and Real Madrid would add the Spanish world‑class midfielder to their squad.