Midfield Makeover: Is Rodri Real Madrid's Next Mastermind?
8 March 2026
Rodri visits Bernabéu for the first time in the golden kit.
Rodri and Real Madrid: Rumors Ahead of the Clash
Real Madrid is weighing a bold midfield upgrade this summer, but does Rodri, Manchester City's Ballon d’Or winner, fit into the club’s plans?
Linked again by media outlets ahead of the two sides clashing in Europe, the 29-year-old Spaniard appears as a talking point, though negotiation dynamics remain unclear.
Rodri would travel with City to Madrid for the round of 16 first leg, with a return match set in Manchester next week.
This is the first time he would face Real Madrid at the Bernabéu since winning the Ballon d’Or, as injuries had previously ruled out a potential reunion.
What insiders say and contract notes
AS reported that Real Madrid does not include Rodri in its midfield plans for now.
Club insiders, however, still rate him highly, especially after a return to fitness that has made him a key option for City.
With a contract through June 2027 and talks of a renewal, anything can still be negotiated before the window closes.
This season he has featured 24 times for City, including a run of 11 consecutive Premier League appearances.
Since September 2025 he has not played for Spain, but coach Luis de la Fuente has signaled a possible recall within two weeks as squads are announced for a finale.
Madrid's links are widening to players like Adam Worthington from Crystal Palace, Kis Smit from Ajax, and Vitinha from PSG, though the latter has stated he would prefer to stay in Paris.
All deals remain under study as the club has time to assess options and pick names aligned with the team’s needs.
Punchline 1: In transfer season, the calendar is a rumor generator.
Punchline 2: Real Madrid might sign a midfielder; the defense signs the contract for more popcorn.
