What Is Manchester City’s Last Move to Keep Rodri From Leaving?

Cityzens manager Enzo Maresca is involved in the club’s final effort to keep the Spanish midfielder. What will happen?

Rodri’s future is entering a decisive week. Barcelona have reportedly made progress in negotiations with Manchester City for the Spanish midfielder, but the English club is not ready to concede the battle. Amid the talks, Enzo Maresca spoke about the player again, leaving the door open for another twist in one of the summer transfer window’s biggest sagas.

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Maresca Insists: City Are Still Waiting for Rodri

Following Manchester City’s 3-1 win over Atlético Madrid in South Korea, Maresca was once again asked about the midfielder’s situation and delivered a message that could be interpreted as direct pressure on Barcelona.

“For now, we expect him in Manchester,” the Italian manager said, later confirming that Rodri is due to report back on August 14. The statement comes as negotiations between City and Barça could be entering their decisive stage.

The manager’s position is clear: until a final agreement is reached, Rodri remains a Manchester City player and is part of the club’s plans for the new season.

Barcelona Push Forward, but City Raise the Price

The situation has taken several turns in recent days. Barcelona have reportedly submitted an initial offer of around €45 million plus add-ons, but Manchester City rejected it, believing it falls well short of their valuation.

According to recent reports, the English club are seeking around €80 million to sanction the midfielder’s departure, a significant financial gap that could delay an agreement.

The 30-year-old Rodri is under contract with Manchester City until June 2027, giving the English club considerable leverage in negotiations. The Spaniard joined the Etihad in 2019 and became a key figure in the team that won, among other trophies, the 2023 Champions League and four consecutive Premier League titles.

Could Maresca Trigger Another Unexpected Twist?

The situation could still change. Barcelona want to complete the signing, and Rodri has reportedly given the green light to the Blaugrana project, but City do not appear willing to facilitate his departure for less than what they consider an acceptable fee.

The English club are also considering midfield alternatives in case they lose their star player. One of the names linked with a potential move is Enzo Fernández, whom Maresca knows from his time at Chelsea, although a deal of that magnitude would also require a significant financial investment.

That is why Maresca’s words carry added significance: “We expect him in Manchester.” If Rodri reports on August 14, City could buy more time to negotiate or even try to convince him to stay.

The question is whether this is Maresca’s final card to keep Rodri or the beginning of another unexpected twist. Barcelona appear to have the upper hand, but until a deal is signed, Rodri remains a Manchester City player.