Manchester City push for Rodri’s renewal amid interest from Real Madrid, targeting long-term contract until 2029

Manchester City is preparing a contract renewal offer for Rodri, aiming to secure the Spanish midfielder’s future and block Real Madrid’s long-term interest. According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, the Premier League champions want to extend Rodri’s current deal set to expire in June 2027 by two more years, keeping him at the Etihad until 2029.

City Offers Massive Salary to Keep Midfield Maestro

City’s strategy is to offer Rodri one of the highest salaries in the squad, making him second only to Erling Haaland in terms of earnings. This financial commitment underscores Rodri’s importance to Pep Guardiola’s system and signals the club’s determination to fend off Real Madrid’s long-term transfer strategy.

The Spanish giants were reportedly eyeing a move for Rodri as his contract approached expiry, but the renewal offer from City closes that door early, reaffirming the club’s intent to build around the midfielder.

Rodri: World’s Best Midfielder, Despite Injury Setback

Rodri, recently named the best player in the world by France Football, missed a large portion of the 2024/25 season due to a serious injury, which had a major impact on City’s performance. The team struggled without his presence, failing to win any major trophies for the first time in Guardiola’s tenure.

Despite winning the Ballon d’Or in 2023/24, the injury has ruled Rodri out of contention for the 2024/25 award. However, with full recovery expected, the 28-year-old is poised to return to his dominant form heading into Euro 2026 and the next club campaign.

Strategic Renewal: City Moves to Avoid Another Decline

Manchester City’s decision to prioritize Rodri’s extension is both a response to recent setbacks and a preventative move against further decline. His injury exposed a lack of depth and highlighted his irreplaceable role in midfield, especially in terms of defensive balance, ball control, and leadership.

Locking down Rodri until 2029 ensures long-term stability and sends a message to potential suitors—particularly Real Madrid that City intends to retain its core at any cost.

Rodri’s Future and the Midfield Race Ahead

Looking ahead, Rodri is expected to face increased competition for individual honors from rising stars such as Lamine Yamal, Vitinha, and Ousmane Dembélé. However, with his peak years still ahead, a return to form could see the Spanish star reclaim his Ballon d’Or contender status in 2026.