Manchester City’s manager, Enzo Maresca, acknowledged the unpredictable nature of the transfer market in light of Barcelona's reported interest in signing midfielder Rodri. The La Liga champions have made an initial offer of £38.5 million ($52 million) for the World Cup winner, which City has turned down. With only one year left on Rodri's contract at the Etihad Stadium, speculation about his potential return to Spain has intensified. City is reportedly seeking around £68 million for the 30-year-old, who was recently named player of the tournament at the World Cup held in North America.
Potential Moves and Transfer Dynamics
Barcelona may return with a revised offer for Rodri, which could prompt Manchester City to pursue Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez as a replacement. Rodri, who had back surgery following his pivotal role in Spain's World Cup victory, was the last City player to report for pre-season training, arriving just last Friday. During a press conference ahead of the
Maresca refrained from discussing players under contract with other clubs but acknowledged that City has unfinished business in the transfer market. “For sure there are things we need to do,” he noted, while remaining uncertain about the number of potential signings, which could depend on player departures.
Rodri joined Manchester City from Atletico Madrid in 2019 and has since secured multiple Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League trophy under former manager Pep Guardiola. He also celebrated victories in Euro 2024 and the Ballon d'Or before a serious knee injury limited his participation in the 2024/25 season.
Departures and Upcoming Challenges
In addition to potential signings, City has already invested £116 million in acquiring England's Elliot Anderson following the departure of Bernardo Silva. Meanwhile, midfielder Tijjani Reijnders is on the brink of a transfer to Saudi club Al Qadsiah for an estimated £51 million. Reijnders, who joined City from AC Milan for £46.5 million last year, has struggled for playing time, starting only half of the Premier League matches.
Maresca remarked on the situation, stating, “It’s normal for a player to want more game time.” He compared Reijnders’ case to that of James Trafford, emphasizing that when the club, player, and manager align on a decision, it is often best for the player to move on.
The upcoming Community Shield will see Arsenal, the previous season's Premier League champions, face off against City, the FA Cup holders. Arsenal finished the last season seven points ahead of City, marking their first Premier League title in 22 years. Maresca expressed determination to narrow the gap with Arsenal, acknowledging their recent successes while reaffirming City’s competitive spirit.
