Rodri Completes Move to Barcelona from Manchester City

Barcelona have completed the signing of midfielder Rodri from Manchester City, the La Liga champions
announced on Tuesday.
The 30-year-old Spain international has signed a four-year contract that runs until 30 June 2030. The
transfer fee is reported to be in the region of £65 million (€76.5 million), with an initial payment of
around €60 million plus add-ons.
Rodri becomes one of the highest-profile arrivals of the summer window after Barcelona beat interest
from Real Madrid. He returns to Spanish football for the first time since leaving Atlético Madrid for City
in 2019.

In an official statement, Barcelona said: “FC Barcelona and Manchester City have reached an agreement
for the transfer of Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, known in the football world as Rodri, who is committing
to the Catalan club until 30 June 2030.”
Speaking after completing his medical and formalities, Rodri said he was ready for a new challenge. “I’m
very happy and excited about this new stage in my career. It’s a fresh challenge, a chance to experience
new things and feel that excitement again,” he told club media.
Upon arriving in Barcelona on Monday, he described the move as “a dream,” adding that he was looking
forward to linking up with several of his Spain teammates at the club, including Pedri, Gavi, Dani Olmo,
Pau Cubarsí and Lamine Yamal.

Rodri leaves Manchester City after seven seasons in which he made 298 appearances and won 12 major
trophies, including four Premier League titles, the 2023 Champions League, two FA Cups and three EFL
Cups.
He was named the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner and captained Spain to World Cup glory this summer,
earning the tournament’s best player award.
His final seasons at City were affected by injury, but he returned to peak form during the World Cup in
North America. City had wanted to keep him and extend his contract, which had one year remaining, but
accepted Barcelona’s improved third offer after earlier bids were rejected.
The deal strengthens Hansi Flick’s midfield as Barcelona prepare to defend their La Liga title. Rodri is
expected to integrate quickly into the squad.

By Oyinkansola Shittu.

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