Rodri emerged as one of the standout players at Euro 2024, playing a pivotal role in leading Spain to the championship title. His exceptional performances throughout the tournament earned him the prestigious award for the best player, underscoring his influence and skill on the German pitches.
The Spanish midfielder is a crucial component of Manchester City’s squad, and manager Pep Guardiola highly values his presence on the field. Rodri’s qualities make him irreplaceable, and Guardiola would be hard-pressed to find an alternative who matches his abilities.
In the wake of Toni Kroos’s retirement following Germany’s European Championship campaign, Real Madrid considered signing Rodri as a replacement. However, the pursuit met an unexpected obstacle. According to Defense Central, Manchester City agreed to sell Rodri to Real Madrid but proposed a swap deal involving Jude Bellingham.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez immediately rejected the idea. Bellingham is seen as a cornerstone of Real Madrid’s future, alongside Vinicius and Kylian Mbappe, who recently joined the club. The potential swap deal was deemed impractical as Real Madrid considers these players integral to their long-term strategy.
Rodri’s performances at Euro 2024 have solidified his status as one of the top midfielders in the world. His importance to Manchester City is undeniable, making any potential transfer complex and unlikely, especially involving key future prospects like Bellingham. As both clubs navigate their strategic plans, Rodri remains a central figure in Manchester City’s ambitions under Pep Guardiola.