Arjun Menon
Hugo Viana is reportedly working to block Rodri from leaving Manchester City in favour of a move to Real Madrid this summer. According to TEAMtalk, Viana is making an “aggressive push” to convince the midfielder to stay beyond the summer transfer window, backed by a “lucrative double promise” centred on captaincy and improved wages.
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The Spanish international has attracted firm interest from Real Madrid, with the Santiago Bernabeu’s appeal reportedly growing despite Rodri‘s previous ties with local rivals Atletico Madrid. Viana believes the prospect of wearing the armband alongside a significant contract upgrade can keep the midfielder at the Etihad.
Rodri’s Rise at Manchester City
Rodri joined Manchester City from Atletico Madrid in a deal worth £62.8 million in July 2019 and has since cemented his standing as one of the world’s premier midfielders. Across seven seasons, he has been a consistent presence in the middle of the park for both club and country, reaching the peak of individual recognition when he claimed the Ballon d’Or in 2024.
The 29-year-old has made nearly 300 appearances for Manchester City, contributing 28 goals and 32 assists. Those numbers, combined with his influence on the team’s structure, have drawn attention from several European clubs. Real Madrid sit at the front of that queue heading into the summer window.
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The Case for a La Liga Return
Real Madrid‘s interest in Rodri is not new. The departures of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric left a clear gap in the midfield at the Santiago Bernabeu, one that the club’s current options have not fully filled. Progression from deep remains an issue for the senior side, and Rodri addresses that directly while also strengthening the defensive midfield unit.
Reports have indicated that Jose Mourinho, who may take charge at Real Madrid this summer, has discussed a move for the Spanish midfielder with president Florentino Perez and given his approval. Separate reports, though, point to Manchester City taking a measured approach to the situation rather than applying direct pressure on the player.
With Bernardo Silva expected to leave the club, Viana is weighing the option of naming Rodri the next captain. That offer, paired with an improved contract, forms the core of City‘s retention strategy. The TEAMtalk report does clarify that the club will not obstruct a transfer if Rodri pushes firmly for an exit. For now, the decision rests with the player.
Stay with TipsGG for ongoing coverage of Rodri‘s future, transfer updates, and match analysis across the top European leagues.