Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has once again addressed growing speculation surrounding the future of star midfielder Rodri, making it clear that the Premier League champions have no intention of letting him leave this summer.
Rodri has become one of the most sought-after players in world football following an outstanding 2025/26 campaign. The Spanish midfielder further enhanced his reputation by playing a pivotal role in Spain’s triumphant FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, cementing his status as one of the best holding midfielders in the game.
His impressive performances have inevitably attracted interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs, with Real Madrid reportedly leading the race to sign the 30-year-old. Despite the mounting transfer speculation, Maresca insists Manchester City remain determined to keep one of their most influential players.
Maresca: Rodri Is Too Important to Lose
Speaking to the media, Maresca stressed that Manchester City are not considering selling Rodri, regardless of the interest from Real Madrid or any other elite club.
The Italian coach described the Spain international as the heartbeat of City’s midfield and a player whose influence extends far beyond his individual performances.
“Rodri is an incredibly important player for us,” Maresca said.
“I understand why every manager in the world would love to have a player like Rodri because he is one of the best in his position. He is vital for me, vital for this club, and vital for everyone involved with Manchester City.”
Maresca’s comments underline just how highly the club values Rodri, who has become one of the team’s most consistent performers over the past several seasons.
Focus Remains on Recovery Rather Than Transfer Rumors
The Manchester City boss also revealed that Rodri is currently focusing on his recovery after dealing with injury issues and is taking time away from football before the new season begins.
Rather than discussing transfer speculation, Maresca wants the midfielder to enjoy his break and return fully fit for what is expected to be another demanding campaign.
“Rodri is currently on holiday, and he deserves this break,” Maresca explained.
“We will need him enormously, especially once the season starts and we begin playing every three days. The most important thing right now is that he recovers well and comes back in the best possible condition.”
City are expected to compete on multiple fronts once again, including the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, domestic cup competitions, and other international tournaments, making Rodri’s availability a major priority.
Real Madrid Continue Monitoring the Situation
Although Manchester City remain firm, reports in Spain suggest Real Madrid have not given up hope of bringing Rodri back to his homeland.
The Spanish giants are believed to view the midfielder as an ideal addition to strengthen their squad, thanks to his experience, leadership, and tactical intelligence.
However, City have made it clear they are reluctant to negotiate and are prepared to resist any attempts to lure Rodri away from the Etihad Stadium.
Manchester City’s Final Strategy to Keep Rodri
According to recent reports, Manchester City have also adopted another strategy to discourage potential buyers.
The Premier League club are reportedly valuing Rodri at around €70 million, a figure that could complicate any move from Real Madrid.
While the transfer fee may appear reasonable for a player of Rodri’s quality, Madrid are reportedly hesitant to make such an investment because the midfielder’s current contract with Manchester City is set to expire next year.
For now, Manchester City’s position remains unchanged. The club sees Rodri as a cornerstone of Maresca’s project and has no plans to part ways with one of the world’s finest midfielders, despite continued interest from Real Madrid and several other European heavyweights.
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