The speculation surrounding Rodri and a potential move to Real Madrid has intensified ever since the 2026 FIFA World Cup came to an end. Reports from several Spanish outlets have claimed that the Spanish midfielder is one of Los Blancos’ top transfer priorities and that personal terms with the player have already been discussed. With rumors spreading rapidly across Europe, Manchester City has finally decided to respond publicly to the growing transfer saga.
According to information published by AS, Manchester City insists that Real Madrid has never made an official approach for Rodri. The Premier League champions have categorically denied receiving any offer or formal inquiry from the Spanish giants. Club officials dismissed the reports as speculation generated by the midfielder’s outstanding performances during the World Cup rather than by any concrete negotiations between the two clubs.
Speaking to AS, Manchester City officials delivered a clear message regarding the situation. “We have not received any offer from Real Madrid,” club representatives reportedly said. They also suggested that the current media frenzy is largely the consequence of Rodri’s exceptional World Cup campaign, which naturally placed him back at the center of transfer discussions after months of uncertainty surrounding his future.
Inside the Etihad Stadium, there is reportedly little concern about the growing rumors. Manchester City believes it remains in a strong negotiating position thanks to Rodri’s current contract, which runs until the summer of 2027. Club executives are confident that they maintain control over the player’s future and remain optimistic about extending his deal in the coming months despite the constant links with Real Madrid.
Rodri‘s performances throughout the World Cup reminded everyone why he is widely regarded as one of the finest defensive midfielders in world football. After enduring physical setbacks during the previous season, the 30-year-old produced a series of commanding displays, combining his tactical intelligence, passing range and leadership qualities. His impressive return to top form inevitably reignited interest from Europe’s biggest clubs, with Real Madrid once again emerging as the most frequently mentioned destination.
The midfielder is nevertheless expected to undergo a minor back procedure in the coming weeks. According to the reports, the operation is designed to resolve a lingering physical issue that has required careful management. Manchester City remains optimistic that the intervention will not significantly affect his availability, with the expectation that Rodri will be fully fit in time for the start of the new season at the end of August.
Despite City’s firm denial, the transfer story refuses to disappear. In Spain, multiple media outlets continue to report that Rodri is attracted by the idea of joining Real Madrid this summer. Some reports even suggest that the player views a return to La Liga as an appealing challenge after years of success in the Premier League. However, none of these claims has been officially confirmed by either the player or the clubs involved.
At the same time, conflicting reports continue to emerge regarding Real Madrid’s own position. While some Spanish journalists insist the club appreciates Rodri’s profile and considers him an ideal reinforcement in midfield, others claim that president Florentino Pérez is reluctant to pursue such an expensive transfer. The midfielder’s age, his contract situation and the significant financial investment required are all believed to be factors influencing Madrid’s internal discussions.
🚨🚨 MANCHESTER CITY ASSURE N’AVOIR REÇU AUCUNE UNE OFFRE DU REAL MADRID POUR RODRI 🇪🇸 !!!! ❌
— Actu Foot (@ActuFoot_) July 24, 2026
Les Citizens affirment que toutes les rumeurs sont la conséquence de la grosse Coupe du Monde qu’a réalisé le milieu de terrain.
🗞️ @diarioas pic.twitter.com/JARxqwzYMe
For now, Manchester City has chosen to clarify only one aspect of the story. The club insists that no official bid has arrived from Real Madrid and that no direct negotiations have taken place between the two clubs. From City’s perspective, the speculation remains exactly that—speculation.
Whether the situation changes before the transfer window closes remains to be seen. Rodri’s future will undoubtedly continue to generate headlines throughout the summer, especially if Real Madrid eventually decides to test Manchester City’s resolve. Until then, however, the Premier League champions maintain that there has been no contact from the Spanish club and that their star midfielder remains fully committed to the Citizens.
