Rodri has refused to rule out a move to Real Madrid after the World Cup.
The Manchester City midfielder has just 12 months left on his contract at the Etihad and has long been linked with a return to the Spanish capital, where he starred previously for Atletico Madrid.
The departure of Pep Guardiola – and the expected arrival of Enzo Maresca – is also likely to herald a shake up of a City squad that failed to overcome Arsenal in the Premier League title race and it would not be a huge surprise to see Rodri moved on.
Speaking at Spain’s media day ahead of the World Cup, the 29-year-old was asked about Real Madrid’s reported interest and replied: “It’s part of football. I’m focused on being a leader in the national team. That’s my way. I understand the noise, but I’m not going to spend my time on that. We’ll see after the World Cup.”
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Rodri ‘ready’ for World Cup challenge with Spain
Rodri won the 2024 Ballon d’Or after playing a key role in City’s Premier League triumph and Spain’s Euro 2024 success but the award came shortly after he ruptured his ACL playing against Arsenal.
He returned at the end of that season but then went through a disjointed 2025/26 campaign, making just 21 top-flight appearances.
Rodri insists, however, that he is feeling fresh ahead of Spain’s campaign in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
He added: “I’m ready. It’s the first time I’ve arrived fresh and without so many games. I’ve been able to overcome everything [even though] the club has not been able to achieve all the objectives. I have less pace than in 2024, but on the other hand less game load.”
Rodri dismisses favourites tag and looks forward to ‘long and demanding’ World Cup
Spain are in Group H alongside Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay and will be expected to go deep in the tournament as they look to replicate their title success of 2010 in South Africa.
Luis de la Fuente’s side start as one of the favourites but that means nothing to Rodri, who said: “The favourites are shown on the field. Labels are of little use. The World Cup is very long and demanding.
“It’s going to be a unique World Cup. There will be someone who will provide a surprise. We have to show what we are.”
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