Rodri Opens Up on Real Madrid, Ballon d’Or Win, and His City Legacy
Barcelona, Spain – Manchester City’s Ballon d’Or winner, Rodri, has revealed he would consider an approach from Real Madrid, calling them the “best team in history,” while reiterating his happiness at Manchester City.
Speaking on a popular Spanish sports radio show, the midfielder was asked how he would react if Madrid attempted to sign him. Rodri responded candidly:
“When Real Madrid, the best club in history, the club with the most titles, and all that it represents, comes calling, well clearly it is an honor, and you have to pay attention,” he said, before quickly adding, “I’m happy at City.”
A Legacy in the Making
At just 28, Rodri has already built an impressive legacy. Since joining Manchester City in 2019 from Atletico Madrid, he has helped Pep Guardiola‘s side secure four Premier League titles and a Champions League trophy. His current contract keeps him at the Etihad until June 2027, and he expressed satisfaction with his life in England.
“I’m happy in England and at City,” Rodri shared, emphasizing the team’s success under Guardiola.
Recovering From Injury
Rodri is currently recovering from a serious knee injury sustained in September, which required surgery for a ruptured ACL and damaged meniscus. Despite his absence on the field, he made history in October by becoming the first Spanish male player to win the Ballon d’Or in over 60 years, following Spain’s European Championship victory in the summer.
He also acknowledged the underappreciated role of defensive midfielders, saying:
“The influence of the central midfielder is often only valued when it is missing. It is almost an invisible side of soccer. I believe that this Ballon d’Or helps shine light on its value.”
Madrid’s Gala Snub
Despite his Ballon d’Or triumph, Real Madrid notably refused to attend the award ceremony after learning Rodri had beaten their star forward, Vinícius Júnior, to the prestigious honor. However, the City midfielder refused to dwell on the snub.
“It’s a decision that a person or a club have their reasons to take, and I don’t want to give it more importance,” Rodri told Cadena Ser.
A Rare Achievement
Rodri’s Ballon d’Or win breaks the dominance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who ruled the award for most of the past two decades. While attacking midfielder Luka Modric claimed it in 2018, the last non-attacking player to win was Fabio Cannavaro in 2006.
Rodri’s triumph not only celebrates his individual brilliance but also highlights the often-overlooked contributions of defensive midfielders. For now, Manchester City’s maestro is focused on his recovery and adding to his already glittering career.
