Rodri to Real Madrid, a viable signing? Everything you need to know about the operation.
The Spanish midfielder is seen as an ideal fit for Xabi Alonso’s system, but his high price tag, injury concerns, and recent tensions complicate the transfer.
Rodri’s name continues to circulate around the Santiago Bernabéu as Real Madrid looks to strengthen its midfield for the future. While the club focuses on its present success, president Florentino Pérez has made it clear that building a competitive squad each year remains a top priority.
“Having a great team is the most important thing. That’s what I’ve tried to do all these years—and the truth is, we’ve won a lot, and we want to keep winning. It’s the work of many years and many people. The world is full of Madridistas. It’s both a joy and a responsibility, and I’ll keep working to bring them happiness,” Pérez stated after winning the Intercontinental Cup.
These ambitions reinforce why Rodri is viewed as a key piece for the Real Madrid of the future, particularly for new head coach Xabi Alonso. However, several challenges stand in the way of making this transfer a reality.
1. Sky-High Price Tag
Rodri is under contract with Manchester City until June 2027. By then, he will be 31 years old. Any attempt to sign him now would come at a massive cost—reportedly no less than €100 million, especially considering he is the current Ballon d’Or holder. It’s a price Florentino Pérez is unlikely to pay.
There’s speculation that a deal could become more realistic if Rodri were to arrange a mutual departure with Pep Guardiola, but for now, that scenario seems far-fetched.
2. Knee Injury Concerns
Another major concern is Rodri’s physical condition—particularly his knee. There are lingering doubts over whether he can maintain peak performance levels, especially as he approaches 30. Real Madrid would need assurance that he can handle the demands of top-level football long-term.
3. Dressing Room Chemistry
Although Rodri would likely be welcomed for his footballing abilities, his actions surrounding the Ballon d’Or ceremony—specifically during post-award celebrations that involved Vinicius Jr.—left a sour taste among some Madrid players. That incident could pose a minor obstacle in terms of dressing room harmony.
In summary, while Rodri could be the missing piece in Alonso’s tactical puzzle, his steep price, injury doubts, and off-pitch friction make the operation highly complex. As of now, a transfer remains more speculative than feasible.
