Rodri returns to Manchester City as Barcelona transfer speculation intensifies
Manager Enzo Maresca welcomes Rodri back to the club but acknowledges the possibility of a sale before the transfer window closes, with reports suggesting the midfielder will not train with the squad.
Manchester City midfielder Rodri has returned to the club following Spain’s World Cup victory and minor back surgery, though his long-term future at the Etihad Stadium remains in question. The Spain captain, who started all eight of his country’s matches and was named Player of the Tournament, completed his holidays before reporting back to the training ground.
Manager Enzo Maresca confirmed Rodri’s return during a pre-game press conference ahead of the FA Community Shield clash against Arsenal on 16 August. Maresca, who was appointed to the role last month, stated he was pleased to see the player back but emphasised that the transfer window remains open. He noted that while Rodri’s return was never in doubt, the club’s squad composition could change before the window shuts.
“I just saw Rodri now in the building, I gave him a big hug. He looks good, so we’ll see what happens,” Maresca said. “First of all, the transfer window is open. We can buy players, we can sell players, anything can happen.”
The midfielder is scheduled to undergo back surgery on Monday. Despite his return to the club, reports indicate it is unlikely Rodri will train with his teammates in the coming weeks. This absence from group sessions has fuelled speculation that a move to Barcelona is imminent, with the Spanish club heavily linked to securing the midfielder’s services.
Jack Gaughan, a Manchester City reporter, suggested on the City Social podcast that the transfer is likely to be resolved with Barcelona before Rodri resumes training duties. Gaughan expressed confidence that Rodri would not train next week, indicating that the player’s stint at Manchester City may be brief pending an agreement on terms.
Rodri’s professionalism has been noted despite the swirling uncertainty surrounding his contract. Unlike players who may attempt to force a move through strikes or public pressure, Rodri has maintained a professional demeanor while his future is negotiated. The final outcome depends on whether Barcelona can agree to Manchester City’s financial terms for the transfer.
