Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola says any unhappy players can leave the club, but he really hopes midfielder Rodri will stay.
During the international break, former Atletico Madrid player Rodri said he might consider joining their city rivals Real Madrid because “you can’t turn down the best clubs in the world.”
The 29-year-old Spain captain has played 293 matches for Manchester City since 2019 and his contract will end next summer. Guardiola said no player would turn down the chance to play for Real Madrid, but he still wants Rodri to stay as long as possible because he is a top player.
Rodri won the Ballon d’Or in 2024, but missed most of last season due to a knee injury, and City didn’t win any major trophy for the first time in eight years. This season, he also missed many games with a hamstring injury, but has still played 28 matches and helped the team win the Carabao Cup against Arsenal at Wembley.
Since joining City, Rodri has won four Premier League titles, the Champions League, FA Cup, and three League Cups.
Rodri also said many players have played for both Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid over time, and again said it’s hard to reject the best clubs in the world.
Guardiola added that Rodri has shown how close and committed he is to Manchester City, and his contribution has been very important. However, he made it clear he won’t stop him if he wants to leave—saying the club comes first, and if a player is not happy, they are free to go.
He also said the club wants Rodri to stay, but in the end, the decision is up to the player.
