Rodri rejects Real Madrid as World Cup winner commits future to another club

Rodri has opted to sign for another club instead of Real Madrid.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 winner was expected to make a move to the Bernabéu.

Rodri wants to sign for Barcelona instead of Real Madrid

It’s certainly been an interesting summer for Rodri. After winning the European Championships back in 2024, the gifted player made an even better memory for Spain by winning the World Cup, with performances so impressive that Rodri won the Golden Ball.

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After the tournament was over, attention quickly switched to where he’d play his football next season, with all signs pointing to Real Madrid. However, it now looks like he’s set his sights on a move to the Camp Nou.

Fabrice Hawkins posted on X: “Rodri’s preference is to join Barcelona over Real Madrid, with both Manchester City and Real Madrid aware of the player’s stance.

“Barcelona have held a long-standing interest in the midfielder, which intensified following Frenkie de Jong’s injury. The club believe Rodri would be an ideal fit for Hansi Flick’s system, while the player is understood to feel he would thrive in Barcelona’s style of play.

“Barcelona must now find the financial resources to make a deal possible. An offer in the region of €60–70m could be enough to satisfy Manchester City.”