Manchester City have their hands full deciding what to do with Rodri | OneFootball

The current international break has allowed Manchester City fans to bask in the glow of their Carabao Cup success. Pep Guardiola’s side beat Arsenal last Sunday 2-0 at Wembley to claim their first piece of silverware in Manchester City’s rebuild. The win at Wembley could become a moment that is looked back upon as one where Pep Guardiola’s side took the next step in their development. Outside of that, the international break gives an opportunity to take a break from all matters concerning Manchester City until domestic football returns next weekend. That was until Rodri’s recent comments with Spanish publication Onda Cero about his desire to one day return to Spain to play in La Liga, and his wish to play for Real Madrid.

Rodri’s comments have been the biggest talking point surrounding City this week. Looking ahead, what is Manchester City’s best path forward in terms of keeping a player who is vital to their play but also has his eyes on a potential move back to Spain? That answer isn’t immediately clear on both fronts at this stage.

Manchester City are eager to get Rodri to extend his contract with the club.

Following Rodri’s recent comments, Sky Sports has provided an update on Manchester City’s plans with their influential midfielder. It is reported by Sky Sports that Manchester City are eager for Rodri to remain at the club. Furthermore, Sky Sports reports that City also want to sign a contract extension with the club. Rodri’s current contract expires at the end of the 2026/27 season. Lastly, Sky Sports adds that Manchester City will not be commenting on Rodri’s interview with Onda Cero.

What is Manchester City’s best path forward from here?

Rodri has expressed his desire to one day return to play in La Liga. That doesn’t come as a major surprise. The Spanish midfielder has achieved all that he can possibly achieve at Manchester City. Rodri has risen from a promising young midfielder when he arrived at City to become a Ballon d’Or winner and one of the best midfielders in world football. He’s also played a key role in City’s era of dominance as they won every major trophy available during their recent run. In terms of achievements, there isn’t much more for Rodri to win at Manchester City.

Also, the Premier League has evolved. Rodri has also expressed how much he enjoys the nature of the Premier League. Now the Premier League has become a physical league where winning duels and the physical battle are key aspects of how games are decided in England’s top flight. Rodri suffered a serious ACL injury last season, and it has taken him 18 months to get back to his best. At 29 years of age, perhaps Rodri wants to extend his career by returning to Spain. That is understandable if he wants to prolong his career.

Do City keep Rodri or cash in this summer?

From a Manchester City point of view, what is their best move with Rodri? City do have a ready-made player to replace Rodri in Nico. They are also likely to be in the market for a midfielder or two this summer. It is understandable that City want to extend Rodri’s contract given his importance to them on the pitch and as a leader. What may well dictate whether or not City can extend Rodri’s contract is his desire to one day return to Spain. Perhaps if Real Madrid do move for Rodri this summer, selling him may be City’s best move. Or the option of keeping him and letting him leave for free at the end of next season is the best move for both parties.

Of course, that all depends on whether Rodri is wanting to extend his contract with Manchester City. If he does that, all speculation over his future ends. But if he doesn’t, he will return to Spain, and it becomes a matter of when that will occur. Given Rodri’s recent comments you do wonder if this summer is the time for Rodri to return home and Manchester City build the final piece of their rebuild which will be their midfield.