Barcelona have officially confirmed the signing of Spain midfielder Rodri from Manchester City in a deal worth £65.4 million. The 30-year-old, who won the Ballon d'Or and helped Spain lift the World Cup, has committed to a four-year contract with the LaLiga club.
Deal Details and Rejected Bids
Barcelona's pursuit of Rodri saw two earlier offers turned down by Manchester City—a £40 million bid and a subsequent £55 million bid—before the two clubs eventually reached an agreement on the £65.4 million fee. The transfer marks a significant investment by the Catalan side as they look to strengthen their midfield.
Rodri expressed his enthusiasm about the move, saying: "I'm very happy and excited about this new stage in my career. It's a fresh challenge, a chance to experience new things and feel that excitement again. I've come to a hugely ambitious club that really suits my personality, so I'll try to help in every way I can to achieve our objectives this season."
Rodri's Praise for Hansi Flick
The midfielder also spoke about working under German manager Hansi Flick, who took charge at Barcelona ahead of the new season. Rodri said: "I'm happy to have a coach who I think will bring a lot to my career. It's a style that I think is somewhat different from what I've experienced before, so it will be enriching and help me grow as a player."
Flick's tactical approach is expected to offer Rodri a new challenge after seven seasons under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, where he became a central figure in one of the most successful eras in the club's history.
Manchester City Legacy and Farewell Message
During his time at City, Rodri made 298 appearances and won 12 major honours, including four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three EFL Cups, and the Champions League in 2023. His final two seasons were disrupted by injury, but he returned to top form at the 2026 World Cup, where he was named player of the tournament as Spain claimed their second world title.
In a farewell message to City supporters, Rodri reflected on his time at the club: "I am leaving the club with a huge sense of pride about what we have achieved and gratitude too for so many amazing memories. What we have done together in these years is something both very special and unforgettable. City didn't just make me grow as a player. They made me grow as a human. I saw my brother graduating from Manchester Metropolitan University. I could see my girlfriend working for the NHS. Manchester shaped my whole life."
Rodri's move to Barcelona signals a new chapter in his career, as he looks to bring his winning mentality and experience to a club aiming to compete for major honours under Flick. His arrival is expected to bolster Barcelona's midfield options ahead of the upcoming LaLiga campaign.
