Rodri, 30, the world-class midfielder who led Spain to victory at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and won the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, is set to don the FC Barcelona jersey.
Barcelona announced on the 19th, Korea time, that it had reached an agreement with Manchester City of England for Rodri's transfer, adding that the two sides had signed a four-year contract running through June 2030.
Neither Barcelona nor Manchester City disclosed the transfer fee, but the BBC reported it was around 65 million pounds (about 124.3 billion won). The move brings Rodri back to Spain seven years after he left Atletico Madrid to join Manchester City in 2019.
Barcelona's signing of Rodri carries added significance as a victory over rival Real Madrid. Real Madrid had made an early push to sign Rodri, but Barcelona, which entered the race later, prevailed. Rodri was said to have been drawn by the strong presence at Barcelona of key Spain teammates with whom he won the World Cup, including Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal.
One of the world's best defensive midfielders, Rodri played 298 matches over seven seasons at Manchester City, driving numerous titles including four English Premier League (EPL) crowns, two FA Cups, three League Cups and one UEFA Champions League title. In 2024, he was honored with the Ballon d'Or, awarded to the world's best player, and he contributed to Spain's triumph at the 2026 World Cup, where he was named the tournament's best player.
"I am happy and excited to take on a new challenge," Rodri said. "Barcelona is an ambitious club that fits my character well. I will help in every way I can to achieve the team's goals."
