Real Madrid president ‘in love’ with Manchester City star: ‘Either him or no one’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez remains a long-time admirer of Rodri and would still like to see the Manchester City midfielder wearing the famous white shirt in the future.

According to a recent report from SPORT, Perez continues to view Rodri as the ideal player to strengthen Real Madrid’s midfield and is ‘in love’ with the Spaniard’s profile. 

Real Madrid’s search for a true midfield organiser began earlier in the season when Xabi Alonso was still managing the team. 

Alonso believed the squad needed a player capable of controlling matches from the centre of the pitch, someone who could dictate the rhythm of games and bring balance to the midfield.

However, the club had already invested heavily in new players during the transfer window. 

After spending close to €200 million on new signings, Perez was reluctant to enter the market again unless the perfect opportunity appeared.

The president made his position very clear regarding the profile he wanted. “Either it’s Rodri, or we do not sign anyone,” he said.

Situation is complex

At the moment, however, the situation remains complicated. Rodri is under contract with Manchester City until 2027, which means any potential transfer would likely require a major financial investment.

Reports suggest that until next summer, the midfielder is unlikely to leave the English club under normal circumstances. 

Florentino Perez continues to admire Rodri. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

If City ever consider selling him, it would most likely be before the final years of his contract to avoid losing him for free in the future.

Despite the contractual situation, Perez’s admiration for the player has remained consistent over the years. 

Sources close to the club claim that the Real Madrid president has always been impressed by Rodri’s personality and professionalism.

Perez remains a fan

According to those sources, Perez initially admired the midfielder’s calm character and leadership qualities. 

But the president’s respect reportedly grew even more after learning about Rodri’s dedication to education.

Club insiders say that someone at the club revealed that the midfielder regularly travelled to Castellon to continue his university studies while playing professional football. 

From that moment, Rodri began to be viewed with even greater respect inside the Real Madrid hierarchy.

Now the midfielder returns to the Santiago Bernabeu once again with Manchester City and while the focus will be on the match, Perez might/might not take advantage of this meeting to initiate something.