Guardiola emerges as Barcelona’s unexpected ally in beating Real Madrid in race for Man City superstar | OneFootball

Barcelona continue to gain momentum in the race to sign Rodri.

The Spanish midfielder has become one of the biggest names of the transfer window, and in recent hours Barcelona’s chances of landing him have strengthened, overtaking arch-rivals Real Madrid in the race.

Now, according to information from COPE(h/t SPORT), Pep Guardiola has played an important role in Rodri’s willingness to seriously consider a move to Barcelona.

Guardiola’s influence

Guardiola is one of the people who knows Rodri best after coaching him for several seasons at Manchester City.

According to the report, the former Manchester City manager has spoken with Rodri about his future and presented Barcelona’s project in a very positive light.

Guardiola understands the club better than almost anyone, having enjoyed some of the greatest years of his career there as both a player and a manager. He knows the demands, the philosophy and the expectations that come with wearing the Barcelona shirt.

Guardiola is understood to have spoken to Rodri about his future. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Pep’s opinion is believed to carry significant weight with Rodri. Under Guardiola, the midfielder developed into one of Manchester City’s most influential players and established himself as one of the world’s best holding midfielders.

That close professional and personal relationship helps explain why Rodri places particular value on Guardiola’s advice when considering the next step in his career.

Real Madrid were leading the race for Rodri in recent weeks. But talks with Manchester City slowed down, opening the doors for Barcelona.

And that is where Guardiola’s intervention proved decisive. The former manager’s advice is understood to have played a part in helping convince Rodri that Camp Nou was the right destination.

Barcelona see Rodri as a statement signing

Rodri chose Barcelona over Real Madrid. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

Within Barcelona, there is a belief that Rodri would represent a transformational addition to the midfield.

His ability to dictate games from deep, his experience at the highest level and his familiarity with La Liga make him an ideal fit for the profile the club are seeking.

Even so, the operation remains far from straightforward.

Manchester City have no intention of making life easy for any club hoping to sign one of their most important players, and any negotiations would require a significant financial commitment from Barcelona.

For now, no agreement has been reached, and Rodri’s future remains unresolved. Talks are ongoing between the two clubs, with Barcelona expected to return with an improved offer after their opening proposal was shot down.