Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has spoken publicly about Rodri’s future for the first time, insisting the ongoing transfer speculation surrounding the midfielder remains just that while providing an encouraging update on the Spaniard’s recovery from surgery.
Rodri has been one of the biggest names linked with a move away from the Etihad Stadium this summer, with Real Madrid reportedly eager to bring the Ballon d’Or winner back to Spain. Paris Saint-Germain have also been credited with an interest, but Maresca has made it clear his immediate priority is the player’s recovery and return from a well-earned break following the FIFA World Cup.
The latest development
Speaking ahead of Manchester City’s pre-season opener against Inter, Maresca was asked about persistent reports linking Rodri with Real Madrid.
Rather than fuelling speculation, the City boss took a measured approach, describing the rumours as speculation and stressing that there have been no discussions focused specifically on the midfielder’s future.
“It’s just about speculation at the moment,” said Maresca. “Rodri had the surgery last Monday; everything was fine. Now, some days off and he’ll be back with us when he finishes his holiday.”
The Italian also confirmed that Rodri underwent surgery recently, revealing that the procedure was successful and that the midfielder is now enjoying time off before returning to Manchester.
For City supporters, that update will come as welcome news, particularly given Rodri’s importance to the squad heading into a new era under Maresca.
Surgery update provides positive news
Although Rodri has spent much of the summer making headlines because of transfer interest, Maresca’s comments centred first on the player’s fitness.
The City manager confirmed the 30-year-old underwent surgery a few weeks ago and reported that everything had gone according to plan.
Rodri is currently taking a short holiday following his involvement at the FIFA World Cup and is expected to rejoin the squad once his scheduled break comes to an end.
That timeline explains why there have been no significant conversations involving the player since the conclusion of last season.
No contract talks during the summer break
Maresca also addressed suggestions that discussions had taken place with director of football Hugo Viana regarding Rodri’s contract situation.
According to the City boss, there have been no conversations dedicated solely to Rodri since the campaign ended.
Instead, Maresca explained that the midfielder’s attention had been fully occupied by the World Cup before moving into his post-tournament break.
That stance reflects City’s current approach. With the player away from the club and recovering from surgery, there has been little urgency to revisit long-term contract negotiations.
Maresca makes Rodri stance perfectly clear
While avoiding speculation over transfers, Maresca left no doubt about one thing — he wants Rodri to remain at Manchester City.
The Italian described the Spaniard as a player every manager in world football would want in their team, underlining just how valuable he considers the midfielder.
Given Rodri’s influence over recent seasons, that view comes as little surprise.
Whether controlling matches in possession, shielding the defence or delivering decisive moments in big fixtures, the Spain international has become one of City’s most influential players.
As Maresca prepares for his first season in charge, retaining a player of Rodri’s quality would represent a significant boost.
Why Real Madrid remain interested
Real Madrid’s admiration for Rodri has been well documented throughout the summer.
The Spanish giants are understood to be keen on strengthening their midfield with one of the world’s leading holding players, while reports have also suggested Paris Saint-Germain have explored the conditions surrounding a potential transfer.
Despite that interest, no formal offer from Real Madrid has yet been made.
That means City’s position remains unchanged, with Rodri still under contract and expected to return to Manchester once his holiday concludes.
Contract situation remains unresolved
Although Maresca attempted to calm speculation, uncertainty surrounding Rodri’s long-term future has not disappeared.
The midfielder’s current deal is due to expire next summer, making his contractual situation one of the biggest issues City will need to address during the coming months.
Reports indicate that contract renewal talks were paused earlier in the transfer window.
When Rodri returns to Manchester, Maresca and Hugo Viana are expected to present their vision for the club’s future in an effort to persuade the midfielder that his long-term future should remain at the Etihad Stadium.
At the same time, it has been suggested that Rodri is open to a new challenge after another hugely successful spell with City.
Whether that ultimately results in a move remains to be seen, but for now there has been no concrete progress towards an exit.
What this means for City
Maresca’s comments suggest Manchester City are treating the current speculation with patience rather than concern. While interest from Real Madrid continues to dominate headlines, there is no indication that a transfer is imminent, particularly with no official bid having arrived.
The priority remains Rodri’s recovery from surgery and his return after the World Cup break. Once he is back in Manchester, attention is expected to turn towards his contract situation and whether City can convince one of the world’s finest midfielders to commit his future to the club.
For now, Maresca is preparing for the new season on the assumption that Rodri remains a central part of his plans, but the coming weeks could prove crucial in determining whether the Ballon d’Or winner continues his journey in sky blue.