Barcelona? Real Madrid? Man City's Rodri has a decision to make

What the report says

Manchester City midfielder Rodri is facing a possible career choice this summer, with BBC Sport reporting that both Real Madrid and Barcelona are being linked as potential destinations if he decides to leave the Premier League champions. The Spain international is in the final year of his contract and has not yet agreed new terms with City, adding uncertainty over his future.

BBC Sport said Real have tracked Rodri for some time, while separate sources indicated Barcelona have now entered the conversation. Barca sources, however, reportedly downplayed the links when asked to comment. Rodri is currently sidelined after back surgery, and his return to City’s pre-season camp in the Far East has not yet happened. He had already missed significant time over the past two seasons because of knee and hamstring problems.

The report places the issue in a wider context for City, who have relied heavily on Rodri since his 2019 arrival from Atletico Madrid. He has won multiple major honours in Manchester, including the Premier League and Champions League, and is regarded as one of the team’s most important players. City sources have previously told BBC Sport they are expecting him to stay, but the club would face a major challenge if he left.

If Rodri does move on, BBC Sport noted that City would need midfield reinforcements to cover the gap, with several current players mentioned as possible internal options. More broadly, the situation matters because it could shape the balance of power in both the Premier League and La Liga ahead of the new season.