Pep Guardiola's Secret Role in Rodri's Barcelona Transfer
With Real Madrid firmly in the race for his signature, a decisive conversation with someone who knows Rodri better than most reportedly changed the direction of his future.
Rodri appears to have made his final choice. After weeks of speculation linking the Spanish midfielder with both Real Madrid and Barcelona, the former Manchester City star has reportedly decided to continue his career with the Catalan giants.
The midfielder has already arrived in Catalonia to complete the final steps of a blockbuster transfer that would bring him back to Spanish football. The move comes after another remarkable year in which Rodri was named the best player at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and strengthened his status as one of the world's elite midfielders.
But there was reportedly another major figure behind his decision. Pep Guardiola, who coached Rodri for years at Manchester City, is said to have personally advised the midfielder on which Spanish giant would provide the best fit for his style of play.
Guardiola Reportedly Told Rodri to Choose Barcelona
According to journalist Juanfe Sanz on Spanish television program El Chiringuito, Rodri sought Guardiola's opinion before making his final decision because of the close relationship the pair developed during their years together in Manchester.
Guardiola reportedly recommended Barcelona, believing the club's footballing philosophy and tactical approach would better suit the qualities that helped Rodri become one of the world's best midfielders.
The possibility of joining a system with similarities to the possession-based football he played under Guardiola at Manchester City is believed to have been one of the decisive factors behind his choice.
Rodri Had Concerns About Real Madrid
Guardiola's advice reportedly reinforced doubts Rodri already had about joining Real Madrid, particularly regarding how he would fit into José Mourinho's tactical system.
The Spanish international had to determine which project would provide the best environment for his biggest strengths: controlling the tempo, dictating possession, building attacks from deep and becoming the reference point in midfield.
There were also questions surrounding his potential relationship with Vinícius Júnior following the controversy surrounding their previous Ballon d'Or battle, adding another element for Rodri to consider before making his decision.
Rodri Is Closing In on His Barcelona Move
Having chosen Barcelona over Real Madrid, Rodri is now expected to undergo his medical examination and complete the remaining formalities before the transfer can be officially announced.
His arrival would represent one of the biggest moves of the summer and give Hansi Flick a midfielder capable of immediately becoming the centerpiece of Barcelona's system.
After conquering English football and establishing himself as one of Spain's biggest stars, Rodri now appears ready for a new chapter in LaLiga — but at Barcelona rather than the Santiago Bernabéu.
