Rodri arrives in Barcelona for medical ahead of 76.5 million euros transfer
Rodri, the Manchester City and Spain midfielder, arrived in Barcelona on August 18, 2026, to undergo a medical ahead of his proposed transfer to FC Barcelona. He landed at Barcelona's El Prat airport after an intense few days that ended with the two clubs reaching an agreement.
The 30-year-old is closing in on a 76.5 million euros move that will end his seven-year spell at the Etihad. 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.”
On joining Barcelona, Rodri 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.” He also outlined the club's targets, saying: “We're going for the Champions League, we're going for everything that comes our way.”
Rodri's departure follows a highly successful period at Manchester City, where he won four Premier League titles 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, although an ACL injury ruled him out for much of the 2024-25 campaign and hamstring and groin problems restricted him to 33 appearances in City's most recent season.
Manchester City had hoped to keep Rodri, particularly with the player entering the final year of his contract, and initially rejected Barcelona's offers before the Catalan club improved their proposal. His exit leaves City with another significant midfield gap; the club have already invested 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 brings experience, control and elite-level pedigree to a midfield already packed with Spain internationals. If his medical goes smoothly, the club are expected to confirm the signing, with his formal presentation scheduled for Wednesday.
