Manchester City midfielder Rodri has admitted he would struggle to reject an approach from Real Madrid, casting doubt over his long-term future at the Etihad Stadium.
“You Can’t Turn Down the Best”: Rodri Hints at Shock Real Madrid Switch
The 29-year-old, widely regarded as one of the world’s finest midfielders, currently has just one year remaining on his contract with the Premier League champions.
Speaking to Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Wednesday evening, the Spain international made clear his admiration for the La Liga giants.
“For me, you can’t turn down the best clubs in the world,” Rodri said when asked if his previous spell at Atletico Madrid would prevent him from joining their city rivals.
The midfielder, who has won 11 major trophies including four Premier League titles and the Champions League during his time at City, also spoke warmly about a potential return to Spanish football.
“I’d like to return, yes, obviously,” he stated. “La Liga is where I started.”
Rodri’s recent performances have demonstrated his enduring quality. He delivered an impressive display in City’s 2-0 Carabao Cup final victory over Arsenal last Sunday, having worked his way back from a serious cruciate ligament injury suffered in September 2024.
The injury limited him to just two Premier League appearances in 2025, but he has featured more consistently since the turn of the year.
While the midfielder insisted his immediate focus remains on regaining full fitness and form, he acknowledged that contract discussions will eventually need to take place.
“Right now I’m free, well, obviously I have a year left on my contract, obviously there will be a point where we’ll have to sit down and talk,” he explained.
“What worries me right now is my feeling, my level, how to get back to my previous level.”
Rodri also reserved special praise for the Santiago Bernabeu, describing Real Madrid’s home as an “incredible” and “very imposing” stadium with a fanbase that “really goes all out.”
With his current deal running down, the midfielder’s comments will place Manchester City on alert as one of European football’s most dominant players openly contemplates a future move to the Spanish capital.
