Rodri Arrives in Barcelona Ahead of €76.5 Million Transfer from Manchester City
Manchester City midfielder Rodri has arrived in Barcelona as he prepares for his €76.5 million (£65.3 million) transfer to the La Liga club. The 30-year-old expressed his excitement about the move, calling it “a dream come true” as he awaits the finalization of the deal following a medical checkup planned for Tuesday.
Speaking to reporters at Barcelona’s El Prat airport, Rodri stated, “I’m very happy to be here. It’s been an intense few days, but I’m glad everything is sorted out.” He emphasized his eagerness to join his new teammates, many of whom he knows from the Spanish national team, and declared, “We’re going for the Champions League, we’re going for everything that comes our way.”
Rodri’s departure from Manchester City comes after seven successful seasons with the club, during which he won four Premier League titles and scored the decisive goal in the 2023 Champions League final against Inter Milan. He recently lifted the World Cup with Spain and had entered the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium, attracting interest from both Barcelona and Real Madrid.
Barcelona’s initial offer of around €50 million was rejected last week, and another bid was also turned down before the two clubs reached an agreement on Sunday. If Rodri’s medical proceeds smoothly, the club could announce the signing later on the same day, with a formal presentation scheduled for Wednesday.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca had previously referred to Rodri as a “top player,” expressing hope that the club could retain him. However, City has encountered challenges in persuading the midfielder to remain and extend his contract. Following his return to City after undergoing back surgery, Rodri dealt with several injuries that limited his appearances during the previous season, featuring in just 33 matches.
City has been actively reshaping their midfield this summer, investing €135 million in player acquisition, including Elliot Anderson, while agreeing to sell Tijjani Reijnders to Al Qadisah. They are also reportedly pursuing Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi and Chelsea’s Enzo Fernández.
Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn
