Rodri lands in Barcelona to complete 'dream' move

Spain midfielder Rodri expressed his dream of playing for Barcelona after arriving in the city to finalize his transfer from Manchester City. The 30-year-old agreed to a four-year contract with the La Liga champions, with Barcelona paying City approximately £65 million. Rodri conveyed his happiness upon his arrival, stating that the intense few days were worth it as everything was sorted out.

He emphasized his excitement about playing for FC Barcelona and being with his team-mates, many of whom he already knows from the national team. Rodri emphasized his intention to focus on winning the Champions League and other achievements with Barca.

Rodri joined City from Atletico Madrid in 2019 for a then-record £62.8 million and has made 298 appearances across seven trophy-laden seasons at the club. However, he missed much of the 2024-25 season due to a serious knee injury and faced disruptions from a hamstring issue earlier in the year. Despite this, Rodri returned to his best at the 2024 World Cup, leading Spain to their second title and earning the player of the tournament award.

City initially rejected Barcelona's initial offer of £38.5 million for Rodri, but the La Liga rivals stepped up their efforts, successfully completing the signing in recent days. Rodri leaves City with 12 major honors, including four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three EFL Cups, and the Champions League in 2022-23.