Barcelona has officially announced the signing of midfielder Rodri from Manchester City for approximately £65 million. The 30-year-old midfielder has agreed to a four-year contract with the Catalan club, marking his return to Spanish football for the first time since his previous stint with Atletico Madrid in 2019.
Rodri departs Manchester City after seven seasons, during which he made 298 appearances and secured 12 major trophies. His achievements with the club include four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three EFL Cups, and the Champions League in 2023. Although his final two seasons at City were impacted by injuries, Rodri regained his top form for the recent World Cup, where he was named player of the tournament as Spain claimed their second title.
Real Madrid had been considered the frontrunner to sign Rodri as he entered the final year of his contract with Manchester City. However, sources indicated that Barcelona had received permission to begin negotiations with City. Real Madrid subsequently withdrew their interest. After Barcelona's initial offer of £38.5 million was rejected by Manchester City, a final agreement was reached.
Upon arriving in Barcelona on Monday, Rodri expressed to journalists at the airport that playing for the Catalan side is a "dream" come true.