Maresca Deflects Rodri Speculation as City Prioritise Community Shield

Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has declined to confirm or deny ongoing transfer speculation linking midfielder Rodri with potential moves to Barcelona and Real Madrid, stating only that “anything can happen” before the transfer window closes. The comments follow viral social media reports of the World Cup winner travelling on a Ryanair flight from Madrid to Liverpool, sparking further conjecture regarding his future at the club.

Maresca confirmed that Rodri is fit to return to training after undergoing back surgery at the end of July. Despite the heightened interest from European giants, it is understood that Real Madrid have cooled their pursuit of the midfielder due to the significant financial weight required for the transfer. Maresca acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the squad’s composition but emphasised that his immediate priority remains the preparation for the upcoming Community Shield match against Arsenal in Cardiff.

Addressing reports that Chelsea had set a Friday deadline for bids for their own midfielder, Enzo Fernandez, Maresca indicated that City would not be finalising any new signings on that day. He noted that the club’s transfer strategy depends on outgoing movements, suggesting they may sign one or two players depending on who leaves. However, he maintained that the club’s focus is squarely on the pitch rather than the transfer market in the immediate term.

The Italian manager dismissed the suggestion that the Community Shield should be viewed as a friendly fixture, describing it as a trophy that the club is determined to win. This match marks Maresca’s first final in charge of City, following the departure of Pep Guardiola at the end of last season. He stressed that his objective is to secure the club’s first silverware of the season, treating the encounter with the same intensity as any other competitive final.

Maresca’s approach reflects a pragmatic focus on governance and performance ahead of the new season. While transfer speculation continues to dominate headlines, the manager has consistently redirected attention towards squad readiness and the tactical preparation required for the Community Shield showdown. The club remains tight-lipped on specific personnel changes, with Maresca insisting that decisions will be made based on the team’s needs and the fluid nature of the transfer window.