Real Madrid, FC Barcelona: new revelations from Rodri's agent

The Spanish captain chooses the Catalan project, but Barça still needs to reach an agreement with Manchester City

Europe Today at 05:12

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Real Madrid, FC Barcelona: new revelations from Rodri's agent

Long linked with Real Madrid, Rodri has ultimately chosen FC Barcelona after a decisive conversation with Hansi Flick.

Once tipped to join Los Blancos, the 2026 World Cup winner and 2024 Ballon d'Or recipient made a last-minute U-turn. On July 23, a contract agreement between Rodri and Real Madrid was reportedly in place. However, with no final deal reached with Manchester City, the midfielder opted instead for the Catalan rivals.

On the show El Larguero, Cadena SER reported his agent’s words: "Out of respect for Real Madrid, whose directors have acted impeccably, Rodri informed them that his decision was to join Barça." The Spaniard apparently notified Madrid officials before giving his priority to the Blaugrana club.

Hansi Flick's call made the difference

Hansi Flick personally called Rodri to lay out his vision and the role awaiting him in La Liga. Convinced by their exchange, the player is now waiting for Barcelona to negotiate with the Citizens.

Under contract with Manchester City until June 2027, Rodri is valued at €50 million by Transfermarkt. However, the Premier League club is reportedly demanding between €60 and €70 million.

Madrid responded by completing the signing of Yan Diomandé for €115 million, plus €25 million in bonuses. José Mourinho had requested the Ivorian to inject even more pace into his attack.

Can Rodri and Pedri coexist?

Their usage during the 2026 World Cup proves they can play together. Flick could deploy Rodri as a holding midfielder and Pedri higher up, as a box-to-box creator. Rodri would secure transitions and dictate the tempo, while Pedri would operate more between the lines.

Captain and player of the tournament at the World Cup, Rodri completed 655 passes out of 705—an astonishing 92.91%. Since 1966, no player had completed so many passes in a single edition of the tournament.