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Rodri headed to Barcelona after Man City accepts transfer bid

Al Jazeera · 2026-08-17

AI SUMMARY

• What happened: Manchester City accepted a £65.4 million ($88.47 million) transfer bid from Barcelona for midfielder Rodri, who is set to sign a four-year contract with the club. • Why it matters: Rodri has been a key player for Manchester City, contributing to their success over seven seasons, including winning 12 major trophies and the 2024 Ballon d'Or, making his transfer significant for both clubs. • What to watch next: Fans will be keen to see how Rodri adapts to Barcelona and impacts their performance in domestic and European competitions following his recovery from minor back surgery.

**Rodri Set for Barcelona Move After Manchester City Accepts Transfer Bid**

In a significant transfer development, Manchester City has agreed to a bid of £65.4 million (approximately $88.47 million) from FC Barcelona for midfielder Rodri, a key player in the team's recent successes. The news was reported by British media outlets on August 17, 2026.

Rodri, who has been a pivotal figure for Manchester City over the past seven seasons, is set to finalize a four-year contract with the La Liga champions. The Spanish international, who won the 2024 Ballon d'Or, is expected to travel to the Nou Camp next week to complete the transfer process.

During his tenure at Manchester City, Rodri made a remarkable 298 appearances and contributed to the club's impressive haul of 12 major trophies. His accolades include four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three League Cups, and the prestigious UEFA Champions League. His consistent performances have solidified his reputation as one of the top midfielders in world football.

Rodri joined Manchester City in 2019 from Atletico Madrid for a then-club record fee of £62.8 million (around $80 million). His arrival marked a significant investment for the club, and he quickly established himself as a crucial component of the team's midfield. Despite having one year remaining on his contract, Manchester City had hoped to extend his stay at the club.

The timing of the transfer comes after Rodri's recent recovery from minor back surgery, which caused him to miss Manchester City's 3-0 defeat to Arsenal in the Community Shield. His absence from the match raised questions about his immediate future, but the transfer to Barcelona appears to be a decisive move in his career.

As Rodri prepares to embark on this new chapter with Barcelona, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his skills and experience will contribute to the Spanish side's ambitions in both domestic and European competitions.

Source: Al Jazeera
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