Rabat – Manchester City head coach Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Rodri is expected to return to Manchester on Friday and rejoin the squad, despite growing reports linking the Spanish midfielder with a move to Barcelona.
Maresca addressed Rodri’s future after City’s 3-1 preseason victory over Atlético Madrid in Seoul on Sunday. Asked about the ongoing transfer speculation, the Italian coach stopped short of offering assurances about Rodri’s long-term future at the Etihad Stadium.
“For now, Rodri will be in Manchester on Friday,” Maresca said, indicating that the 30-year-old remains part of City’s immediate plans while negotiations over a possible departure continue.
Rodri has been absent for much of City’s preseason after undergoing minor back surgery and taking time off following Spain’s successful 2026 World Cup campaign. He is expected to report back on August 14 and resume work with Maresca’s squad.
His scheduled return comes at a time when Barcelona are stepping up their efforts to bring him back to Spain.
The Guardian reported that Rodri has agreed personal terms with the Spanish champions after speaking with Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco.
However, no agreement has been reached between Barcelona and Manchester City, meaning the transfer remains far from official.
City reject Barcelona opening offer
Manchester City have already rejected Barcelona’s first proposal for Rodri, which was worth around $52 million based on the latest European Central Bank exchange rate. City reportedly considered the offer significantly below their valuation and are seeking a substantially higher fee before allowing the midfielder to leave.
Rodri has entered the final year of his Manchester City contract and has reportedly turned down an offer to extend his stay. Barcelona have therefore continued negotiations in the hope that City will lower their asking price rather than risk losing him for free next year.
The midfielder’s preference is reportedly to return to Spain. Real Madrid had also held talks over a potential move earlier this summer, but Barcelona have since moved into a stronger position in the race for his signature.
Rodri’s potential departure would represent a significant change for City. Since arriving from Atlético Madrid in 2019, he has developed into one of the most influential midfielders in European football and was central to the club’s Champions League-winning campaign in 2023.
His reputation grew further this summer when he helped Spain win the 2026 World Cup. FIFA awarded him the tournament’s Golden Ball after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final.
