Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has introduced fresh uncertainty over the long-term future of star midfielder Rodri. The Catalan manager has stated that he knows the intentions of both the club and the player, but cannot predict the outcome.
The cryptic comment comes amid persistent speculation linking the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner with a move to Real Madrid. Rodri's current contract with Manchester City runs until the summer of 2027, and while the club has reportedly offered a new deal to ward off interest from the Spanish giants, no agreement has been finalized.
Man City boss Pep Guardiola’s honest admission about Rodri’s future
The Sky Blues head coach, amid the transfer rumors, said:
“I know the intention of the club, I know the intention of him…but I don't know what’s gonna happen”.
The Spaniard has been a cornerstone of City's success since joining from Atletico Madrid in 2019, leading the midfield even after returning from a significant ACL injury that sidelined him for much of the 2024-25 season.
The development adds pressure on the Premier League side as they navigate squad planning. Rodri has previously refused to rule out a move to one of the world's biggest clubs, saying that one "can't turn down the best clubs in the world," while Real Madrid have been linked with a summer transfer.
City is understood to view the 29-year-old as a priority for retention, with Guardiola having previously expressed a strong desire for him to stay. However, the manager's latest comments suggest that external factors or negotiations could still influence the final decision.
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