Rodri arrives in Barcelona for medical ahead of 76.5 million euros move to FC Barcelona
Rodri, the 30-year-old Manchester City and Spain midfielder, arrived in Barcelona on August 18, 2026, to undergo a medical ahead of his transfer to FC Barcelona. The move, reported at 76.5 million euros, will bring his seven-year spell at Manchester City's Etihad to an end.
He landed at Barcelona's El Prat airport after an intense few days that saw the two clubs finally reach an agreement. Speaking to reporters, he said, "I'm very happy to be here. It's been an intense few days, but I'm glad everything is sorted out." He added, "Playing for Barcelona is a dream come true for me. I'm really looking forward to being with my teammates, most of whom I already know from the national team, so now it's time to work hard and give my best."
The transfer ends a seven-year stint at Manchester City during which Rodri established himself as a central figure in midfield. He won four Premier League titles with City and scored the only goal in City's 2023 Champions League final victory over Inter Milan. He also claimed the Ballon d'Or in 2024.
Injuries affected his recent seasons: an ACL injury ruled him out for much of the 2024-25 campaign, while hamstring and groin problems limited him to 33 appearances in City's most recent season. Manchester City had hoped to retain their midfield linchpin, particularly with Rodri entering the final year of his contract.
Barcelona's initial bids were rejected before the Catalan club improved their offer to 76.5 million euros and secured the deal. Rodri's departure leaves City with another significant midfield hole. The club have already invested heavily in the position and are closing in on Lille youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi, while Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez remains on their radar.
For Barcelona, Rodri's arrival adds experience, control and elite-level pedigree to a midfield already packed with Spain internationals. He told reporters, "We're going for the Champions League, we're going for everything that comes our way," he said.
If his medical goes smoothly, the club are expected to confirm the signing. His formal presentation is scheduled for Wednesday.
