Barcelona have completed the signing of Spanish midfielder Rodri from Manchester City in a deal reported to be worth £65.4 million, bringing one of Europe’s most decorated midfielders to the Camp Nou.
The 30-year-old Spain international has agreed a four-year contract with Barcelona that will keep him at the LaLiga club until 2030. The transfer follows a series of negotiations between Barcelona and Manchester City, with the English club initially rejecting lower offers before the two sides reached an agreement.
Rodri becomes one of Barcelona’s major additions under manager Hansi Flick. His arrival is expected to strengthen the club’s midfield with his experience, tactical intelligence and ability to control games from a deep position.
Speaking after completing the move, Rodri expressed his excitement about beginning a new chapter in his career.
“I’m very happy and excited about this new stage in my career. It’s a fresh challenge, a chance to experience new things and feel that excitement again.”
The midfielder also praised Barcelona’s ambitions and said he was eager to contribute to the club’s objectives.
Rodri is equally enthusiastic about working with Flick, whose approach to the game differs from some of the systems he has previously experienced.
He said having the German coach at Barcelona could provide an opportunity for him to develop further as a player.
The transfer brings an end to Rodri’s seven-year spell at Manchester City. He joined the Premier League club from Atletico Madrid in 2019 and went on to establish himself as one of the most influential defensive midfielders in world football.
During his time at City, Rodri made 298 appearances and played a key role in a hugely successful period for the club. He won four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three EFL Cups and the UEFA Champions League in 2023.
His spell in England was also marked by individual recognition. Rodri won the 2024 Ballon d’Or and has continued to play a central role for Spain, including during the country’s successful 2026 World Cup campaign, where he was named player of the tournament.
Although injuries disrupted parts of his final seasons at Manchester City, Rodri returned to the international stage and helped Spain secure another World Cup triumph.
In his farewell message to Manchester City supporters, Rodri reflected on the impact his time in England had on both his football career and his personal life.
He expressed pride in the achievements he shared with the club and gratitude for the memories created during his seven seasons at the Etihad Stadium.
Rodri also revealed how deeply Manchester became connected to his life away from football, mentioning his brother’s graduation from Manchester Metropolitan University and his girlfriend’s work with the NHS.
The move to Barcelona now gives Rodri the opportunity to return to Spain and begin a new chapter under Flick, while Barcelona gain a World Cup-winning and Ballon d’Or-winning midfielder with extensive experience at the highest level.
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