Rodri rules out Real Madrid as Barcelona move emerges

Rodri has ruled out a move to Real Madrid, according to comments attributed to his agent Pablo Barquero, a development that leaves Barcelona as the clear frontrunner for the Manchester City midfielder.

Agent reveals Real Madrid decision

The Spain international has been at the centre of transfer speculation since the end of the 2026 World Cup, where he helped his country win the final against Argentina and was awarded FIFA's Golden Ball as the tournament's best player.

For much of that period, Real Madrid appeared to be the most likely destination. But the picture shifted in recent days as Barcelona entered the race more aggressively, and the latest update now suggests the Catalan club have moved ahead.

According to Cadena SER, Barquero explained that Rodri decided against joining Real Madrid, despite appreciating the proposal put to him. The report said contact began only a few days after Spain's World Cup triumph and that Madrid made a serious effort to complete the deal.

Real's push was significant

In the radio programme El Larguero, journalist Anton Meana, citing the agent's account, said Real Madrid handled the process with professionalism and respect. The offer was described as very strong, and the club's senior leadership were said to be fully involved in trying to persuade Rodri to make the move.

The same account stated that talks took place over the last two weeks in a positive atmosphere, but that the player ultimately chose a different offer. That decision, as presented in the report, points toward Barcelona.

It was also reported that Rodri informed Real Madrid of his choice on Thursday 6 August, with the intention of avoiding uncertainty and thanking the club for the way negotiations had been conducted.

Barcelona now face Manchester City challenge

Even with Rodri's preference becoming clearer, any deal remains dependent on Manchester City. The Premier League club still have the midfielder under contract until the end of June 2027, which means they retain a strong position in any negotiations.

The source also noted that there had been contact between Real Madrid and Manchester City, underlining the complexity of the situation. If Rodri is to leave, City are unlikely to let him go cheaply, especially given this may be one of the last opportunities to command a major fee should no renewal materialise.

That means Barcelona would need to commit significant resources to complete the transfer.

Rodri's standing remains elite

Rodri has been a Manchester City player since 2019 and has built an outstanding record at the club. Across 298 appearances, he has scored 28 goals and provided 32 assists, while collecting the biggest honours available, including the Premier League, FA Cup, EFL Cup, Community Shield, Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup.

Before moving to England, Rodri played for Villarreal and Atletico Madrid, where he also came through the youth system. Now, after becoming one of the standout figures of Spain's World Cup success, his next club decision is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched stories of the window.