Sports26 March, 20261 min read
Pep Guardiola Hopes Rodri Stays at Man City Despite Real Interest
Rodri signaled Real Madrid as a viable option, keeping the door open. Guardiola wants Rodri to stay and City reportedly pursuing a contract extension.
Contract Talks and Real Madrid
Guardiola expressed hope Rodri will stay despite the player considering a move to Real Madrid. Rodri said you can't turn down the best clubs in the world.
Guardiola confirmed he would absolutely not stand in the way if he wanted to leave. City have made a lucrative offer but the player is entering the final year of his contract.
Injury and Form
Rodri missed almost the entirety of last season after a knee injury. He won the Ballon d'Or in 2024 despite that absence.
This season he has played 28 games but missed chunks due to a hamstring issue. Guardiola said he feels Rodri is really back.
Transfer Market Dynamics
Real Madrid remains a genuine suitor for Rodri. Manchester City is now willing to let Rodri decide his future and would not block a departure this summer. Guardiola's openness to letting Rodri leave is an uncommon level of transparency.