Rodri’s Future: A Balancing Act Amid Contract Speculations

omidbasir- Rodri’s future has become a significant topic of discussion in European football, particularly as his current contract with Manchester City nears its expiration in 2027. The Spanish international has been a key figure in Pep Guardiola’s strategic success since joining from Atlético Madrid in 2019 and is reportedly a primary target for Real Madrid.

At an awards ceremony in Madrid, Rodri’s father, Antonio Hernandez, commented on the swirling rumors regarding his son’s career. While he emphasized that the 29-year-old is content at Manchester City, he refrained from confirming any contract renewal. “If I said something I would have to kill you,” Hernandez humorously remarked to reporters when pressed for details. “I can’t disclose anything. He’s very comfortable where he is. It’s possible he doesn’t yet know where he will play. He is negotiating, but I’m not privy to any specifics. The future remains unwritten.”

The past 18 months have posed considerable challenges for Rodri’s illustrious career. Following a severe cruciate ligament injury in September 2024, the midfielder faced a year-long absence from the game, a harsh disruption for a player who had just reached the pinnacle of his career, securing the Ballon d’Or. Since his return, the journey back to peak performance has been anything but smooth.

Hernandez elaborated on the mental and physical challenges that the injury inflicted on his son. “It has been difficult because for a Ballon d’Or winner, suddenly stopping and then needing to readjust a year later while aspiring to regain former glory is no easy feat,” he explained. Although Rodri has made 14 league appearances this season, he continues to contend with recurring muscular issues, having missed over two months due to hamstring injuries.

With the 2026 World Cup approaching, the pressure is mounting for Rodri. Spain relies on him to anchor the midfield during the tournament in North America, yet his fitness remains a concern. His father disclosed that the primary focus now lies in managing his workload to ensure he peaks at the right moment for the national team.

“This year has been incredibly challenging, but he has made a strong recovery from his year away from the game. There are always lingering muscle issues. However, his eagerness to participate in the World Cup is palpable,” Hernandez stated. “He is training exceptionally well, and just by observing him, you can tell. He returned to play and almost immediately resembled the Rodri we all know, so our family’s confidence in him is absolute.”

Irrespective of what the future holds, Rodri has already established himself as a Manchester City legend. He has been instrumental in the club’s most successful era, winning 11 major trophies, including four Premier League titles and the prestigious Champions League trophy. His goal in the 2023 final in Istanbul against Inter will forever be remembered in City history.

However, the uncertainty surrounding his contract adds a layer of intrigue to what could potentially be his last full season with the club. Should negotiations falter, City may face a difficult decision rather than risk losing a valuable asset for free in 2027. For the moment, attention remains focused on the pitch, but with Real Madrid looming and a contract yet to be signed, the narrative surrounding Rodri’s future is likely to dominate headlines well into the summer transfer window.