Former player Gaizka Mendieta spoke about the hypothetical departure of Rodri from Manchester City and dropped a true bombshell.
Although the former Villarreal and Atlético player has been linked repeatedly with Real Madrid, Mendieta stated that Rodri’s preferences would not be for Madrid and spoke about Barça: "If he leaves Manchester City, I imagine there would be an agreement with the club. Moreover, he has a strong connection with Barcelona. Txiki Begiristain was there, and of course, Pep Guardiola as well. But in the end, Rodri will decide personally. And I think it would be very difficult for him to sign for Madrid," he said to 'BeBrother.'
Mendieta made clear that Rodri has a deep attachment to Manchester City, a club that has given him everything where he has won a Champions League and the Ballon d’Or: "Personally, I think it’ll be difficult for him to leave, especially knowing Rodri’s bond with the club. It would have to be an extreme situation where he felt practically forced to leave."
Still, Pep Guardiola’s possible departure, with his future uncertain and the likelihood of ending his cycle at City, could be decisive for Rodri: "If there are changes, it’s time for Rodri to reflect on his future," he pointed out.
Madrid had contacted Rodri, but the midfielder never indicated a willingness to leave City nor did the club want to sell him. What may change is the potential exit of Pep Guardiola and the beginning of a new sporting project. It’s clear that, in that context, Rodri would prioritize Barça over Madrid, assuming the Blaugrana want him.
