Mendieta: “Real Madrid not likely option for Rodri if he exits Manchester City”

Real Madrid have been warned not to assume that Rodri would choose them if he decides to leave Manchester City, amid suggestions the midfielder could favour a move elsewhere in Spain. 

The 29-year-old is working his way back to peak condition after missing most of last season with a torn ACL and suffering further injury setbacks this campaign, but his return has strengthened City’s push for major honours.

Rodri is approaching the final year of his contract at the Etihad Stadium, fuelling speculation over his long-term future. 

Madrid have frequently been linked with the Spain international and have a track record of landing elite players on free transfers after they run down their deals. 

However, doubts remain over whether the European champions would be his preferred destination.

Former Spain international Gaizka Mendieta believes Rodri’s strong connections with Barcelona could complicate any potential switch to the Santiago Bernabeu. 

Mendieta pointed to the influence of figures such as Txiki Begiristain and Pep Guardiola, both of whom have ties to Barcelona, suggesting the Catalan club may hold particular appeal for the midfielder.

Despite the transfer talk, Mendieta expects Rodri to remain in Manchester and re-establish himself as one of the world’s leading midfielders. 

The Spaniard was in Ballon d’Or contention before his serious knee injury in 2024 and played a pivotal role in City’s recent successes, including their Champions League triumph. 

According to Mendieta, Rodri’s focus is on returning to that level rather than seeking a new challenge.

One factor that could yet shape the situation is the future of manager Pep Guardiola. 

Guardiola is in his 10th season at City and has one year remaining on his contract. 

Although he has consistently downplayed speculation about his departure, his eventual exit would mark a significant turning point for the club.

Mendieta believes Guardiola’s departure could prompt Rodri to reassess his own position. 

The manager has overseen six Premier League titles and delivered City’s first Champions League crown in 2023, building a dominant era at the Etihad.