Guardiola: Rodri free to leave City for Real Madrid if unhappy
Guardiola: Rodri free to leave City for Real Madrid if unhappy
Guardiola says Rodri could depart City for Real Madrid if he isn’t fulfilled, while still expecting him to stay and the club pressing for a renewal.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola indicated Rodri could leave for Real Madrid if he’s unhappy, but he still expects the midfielder to stay. He emphasised that the organisation of the club is above everyone: if a player is not happy, they have to leave. Guardiola added he believes Rodri is happy at City, though he admitted he does not know if the midfielder will sign a new deal.
Ahead of the international break, Rodri acknowledged ongoing links with Real Madrid, noting that being a former Atlético Madrid player would not rule out a move and that joining the world's best clubs is possible if the circumstances were right.
The midfielder’s contract runs until June 2027, and Guardiola said City have communicated their desire for him to stay: “they informed me what they want from Rodri – it is to stay, stay, stay.” But the manager stopped short of guaranteeing a renewal, underscoring that the final decision rests with Rodri and his happiness.
If Rodri remains content at City, Guardiola expects him to stay; if not, the door would be open for him to explore offers. The evolving situation adds to the summer transfer chatter around one of City’s key players, with Real Madrid among the clubs that could come calling.
