Sources: Door opens for Man City star to join Real Madrid after confirmed news
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(Credit: Imago) Fri 22 May 2026 18:00, UK Rodri could be tempted to move away from Manchester City this summer after Pep Guardiola’s exit was confirmed, sources have told Football Insider.The 29-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Real Madrid, with a return to Spain set to appeal as he eyes a long-term future away from the Etihad.After Guardiola confirmed his departure with an emotional message to fans via the club’s social media channels, one of his star players could be set to follow.As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Rodri could consider his future at Man City with Madrid’s interest accelerating.The boss’ departure is set to kickstart a busy summer transfer window at Man City, with a new manager needed alongside players to back Guardiola’s replacement. 🔄 Man City Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, elite targets, and contract news from the City Football Group boardroom. VISIT THE TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Could Rodri follow Pep Guardiola out of Man City?Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider earlier this year that Rodri will consider his future if Guardiola leaves Man City when the season ends.The midfielder’s future has been up in the air for months as contract talks continue to stall, and there is now a growing feeling he could follow the boss away.Rodri2025-26 StatsAppearances33Starts22Minutes Played2185Trophies Won1x FA Cup1x League CupRodri’s stats for Man City in the 2025-26 season.
(via Transfermarkt)Real Madrid are expected to be placed on alert over the situation and could step up their efforts to lure him to the Bernabeu when the window opens.Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “There’s upheaval if any manager leaves a club, it does maybe unsettle a few players.“He’s obviously been such a key figure for a lot of the players in that Man City squad.“The biggest one would be Rodri that potentially could move on in the wake of Guardiola leaving. Obviously he’s just got one year left on his contract.“Maybe with Pep leaving, it could open the door for Rodri to follow him out the door.“Real Madrid have been waiting in the background and are ready to sign him as well with just one year left on his contract at Man City.”Are Real Madrid expected to make a move for Rodri?Rodri has long been linked with a move to Real Madrid, although he has always opted to remain at the Etihad, and that may no longer be the case.During an interview earlier this season, the Spaniard confessed it would be difficult to turn down Los Blancos, and Guardiola’s exit could kickstart his departure.Credit: ImagoFootball Insider revealed on 16 May that Real Madrid are “doing everything” to sign Rodri after he emerged among their top targets for the transfer window.The imminent arrival of Jose Mourinho as their next permanent manager is expected to further accelerate their plans, as he is keen to link up with the Man City star.While much will depend on the midfielder’s stance and whether he could commit to a new deal at the Etihad, there is a growing feeling he could now move on.
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