Official! Barcelona Confirm the Signing of World Cup Champion Rodri

Here’s how the Catalan club announced the arrival of Spain’s captain, who lifted the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

FC Barcelona officially announced the signing of Rodri Hernández on Tuesday, August 18, 2026. The Spanish midfielder arrives from Manchester City after establishing himself as one of the biggest stars in world soccer. Rodri has signed through June 2030 and chose the Catalan giants over Real Madrid, despite receiving an offer from the Spanish club.

Rodri Chose Barcelona Over Real Madrid

The signing carries special significance for Barça: Rodri turned down Real Madrid to join the project led by Hansi Flick. According to reports, the midfielder’s decision was not based solely on money, but also on his connection with Barcelona’s style of play and the opportunity to return to LaLiga.

The Spain international considered Barcelona his first choice, even after receiving other offers. His connection with Spain teammates already on Barcelona’s squad also influenced his decision.

The deal with Manchester City includes a fixed transfer fee of approximately $70 million, while performance-based add-ons could take the total cost to nearly $88 million. The 30-year-old midfielder has signed a four-year contract.

The World Cup Champion Arrives at Barcelona

Barcelona are adding a player with an elite résumé. Rodri won the 2024 Ballon d’Or and was one of Spain’s standout players at the 2026 World Cup, where La Roja lifted the trophy and the midfielder was named the tournament’s best player.

During his seven seasons with Manchester City, Rodri made 298 appearances and won 12 trophies, including four Premier League titles and a Champions League. He also scored the goal that gave the English club its first European Cup in 2023.

Barça also announced the arrival of its new signing through its social media channels, publishing posts and an announcement video to officially confirm the midfielder’s arrival. The digital campaign accompanied the unveiling of a signing the club considers a key piece of its sporting project.

Rodri is officially a Barcelona player. The World Cup champion chose Barça, turned down Real Madrid and arrives at Camp Nou ready to become the new leader of the Catalan club’s midfield.