Manchester City midfielder Rodri has stated his full concentration remains on securing the Premier League title, downplaying speculation linking him with a move to Real Madrid. The Spain international has entered the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium, prompting discussion about his long-term future with the club.
Sky Sports reported in March that City are keen to extend Rodri’s deal, recognising his importance to Pep Guardiola’s team. However, the player previously acknowledged that a move to Real Madrid would be appealing, despite his past association with their city rivals Atletico Madrid. He told Spanish publication Onda Cero that he wouldn’t rule out joining the “best clubs in the world” and expressed a desire to return to La Liga at some point in his career.
Speaking after City’s FA Cup final victory over Chelsea at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, Rodri clarified his current priorities. Quotes carried by Spanish outlet SPORT revealed his commitment to the present. “I’m calm,” he said. “As I said a while ago, I only think about my club, about ending the season with the greatest possible titles.”
Rodri highlighted the opportunity to win both the Premier League and represent Spain at the World Cup as his immediate focus, stating he is “going to be honest” about his dedication to these goals. City trail league leaders Arsenal by two points, with a crucial match against Bournemouth upcoming on Tuesday. Arsenal play Burnley the following evening. A successful conclusion to the season for City would see them add the Premier League title to their League Cup and FA Cup triumphs.
Separately, BBC Sport reports that Real Madrid are in advanced negotiations to re-appoint Jose Mourinho as their manager. The 63-year-old, currently managing Benfica, previously managed Real between 2011 and 2013 and is expected to replace Alvaro Arbeloa, who stepped up from the academy following Xabi Alonso’s dismissal in January.
