Manchester City midfielder Rodri says he will wait until after the World Cup before discussing his club future, despite growing speculation linking the Spain international with a move to Real Madrid.
The 29-year-old enters the final year of his Manchester City contract and remains one of the most important figures in Spanish football. Reports in Spain and England continue to link him with Real Madrid, while City also face a period of transition following Pep Guardiola’s departure.
Rodri made it clear that his attention remains on Spain’s World Cup campaign in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
“Well, I’m trying not to make too much of it, but it is part of my job, especially when a player has been nearing the end of his contract for some time. It’s only natural that names come up.”
“But anyway, I’m very calm, I know exactly where I stand.”
“We’re here to talk about the World Cup and everything that concerns my future, I’ll wait until the end of the World Cup.”
The comments come as transfer speculation continues to gather pace. Rodri’s current deal runs until June 2027, meaning City risk entering a difficult position if no extension arrives over the next year. Real Madrid remain heavily linked with the Ballon d’Or winner, although no agreement exists between the clubs.
Rodri’s importance to City remains beyond doubt. Since arriving from Atletico Madrid in 2019, he has become the heartbeat of their midfield and one of the most influential holding midfielders in world football. He won the 2024 Ballon d’Or after helping Spain win the European Championship and after several trophy-filled seasons in Manchester.
His recent campaign brought fresh challenges. Injury problems limited his minutes, but he still returned to play a key role during the second half of the season. Premier League statistics show he made 20 starts and four substitute appearances, scored once and maintained a passing accuracy of 90 per cent.
While questions about his future continue, Rodri wants Spain focused on a different objective. The European champions enter the World Cup as one of the favourites after dominating possession and controlling matches throughout recent tournaments.
The midfielder revealed he recently encouraged his teammates to adopt the mentality of Spanish tennis legend Rafael Nadal.
“What I told them is that we need to try to play without the ball like a small team. With that mindset of not thinking you’re the best.”
“I was just watching the documentary on Nadal and he was always talking about that, always one more ball, one more effort.”
Spain face Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in Group H. Rodri believes humility and work rate will matter as much as talent if Spain want to lift another major trophy.
His message also underlines his growing leadership role within the national team. At a World Cup where Spain boast stars such as Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Nico Williams, Rodri remains the player who sets the rhythm on and off the pitch.
For now, Real Madrid can wait. Manchester City can wait.
Rodri wants only one conversation before July. He wants Spain to win the World Cup.
