Pep Guardiola wants a new deal for star midfielder Rodri, as he claimed the Spaniard is vitally important for Manchester City.
Rodri has been through a tough period in his career after reaching probably one of the highest points in a footballer’s life. Having come to Manchester City from Atletico Madrid, he has proven to be one of Pep Guardiola’s greatest signings, and his achievements are also a testament to the coaching of the Catalan manager.
Rodri was instrumental in Manchester City’s four straight Premier League title wins, as well as the Champions League, as part of a treble-winning season. His consistent displays for club and country saw him win the Ballon d’Or in 2024, which is probably what every footballer dreams of when taking up the sport professionally.
The period since has been very testing for the long-serving Manchester City star, having suffered an ACL rupture early last season. Since his return from the knee issue, he has suffered fresh injuries, which have effectively kept him in and out of the team until the new year.
Those fitness issues may have cast some doubts over his long-term future at Manchester City. However, over the last few weeks, he has been playing at a good level and appears to be nearing his best form as a footballer, which has delighted Guardiola.
Guardiola’s comments that appeared on Fabrizio Romano’s post on X stated that the Manchester City boss wants a new deal for Rodri. He suggested that the player was more than important for the club in the present and future.
Guardiola said, “I’d LOVE Rodri to sign a new deal at Man City, desperately”.
“Rodri is Rodri; a player with as much age as he has, wisdom, understanding. There are players when they’re on the pitch, we feel better. Rodri is one”.
Rodri’s future has come under some doubt, and with his current deal expiring in 2027, there are some suitors keeping close tabs. Real Madrid have shown an interest in taking the midfielder back to Madrid, while there’s no news of a Manchester City extension as things stand.
Reports were stating Manchester City will resume contract talks with the long-serving star soon, and Guardiola’s comments might now help accelerate those. Rodri seems completely happy with life in Manchester at the moment and is not actively pushing to leave the club anytime soon.
There could be dialogue between the club and the long-serving Manchester City star soon, which might come to fruition. Renewing Rodri’s deal will be a key decision for the club for the present and future, especially if the midfielder regains his best form in the time between now and the end of the current season.