Spain's World Cup-winning midfielder Rodri has arrived in Barcelona to complete a €76.5 million transfer from Manchester City on a deal reportedly running until 2030.
Spain's World Cup-winning captain Rodri arrived in Barcelona on Monday (August 17, 2026) to complete a €76.5 million ($88.5 million) transfer from Manchester City. The 30-year-old midfielder is expected to undergo a medical on Tuesday as both clubs exchange documentation to finalize the agreement.
Expressing his excitement about the move, Rodri told reporters: "Very happy to arrive. There have been some very intense days, but I'm happy that everything has been resolved. For me it's a dream to play for Barcelona. I'm excited about being with my teammates, many of them I already know. Now it's time to get to work and give my best."
Rodri, who won the Golden Ball as the World Cup's best player after helping Spain secure its second title last month, had one year left on his Manchester City contract. His new deal with Barcelona will reportedly extend until 2030, reuniting him with international teammates Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Pau Cubarsí, Gavi, and Pedri.
Hansi Flick's Barcelona side, currently chasing a La Liga three-peat, has already strengthened its squad with England forward Anthony Gordon following the departures of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres. The Catalan club is also set to add defender João Cancelo in the coming days. Real Madrid was also reportedly interested in Rodri, having already signed Bernardo Silva from Manchester City this offseason.
Rodri originally joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2019, scoring the winning goal in the 2023 Champions League final against Inter Milan and winning the Ballon d'Or in 2024 after Spain's European Championship victory. He did not feature in City's 3-0 Community Shield loss to Arsenal on Sunday as he recovers from minor back surgery following the World Cup.
Reporting sourced from The Hindu Football. Photo courtesy The Hindu Football.