Full Breakdown
Rodri’s Back Surgery, Contract Year and the Real Madrid Transfer Puzzle
7/23/2026, 6:22:51 AM
Core Event: Back Surgery and Unclear Return Timeline
Manchester City midfielder Rodri will undergo surgery on a back injury, with no timetable for his return. The 30-year-old Spain captain faces an uncertain future at the Etihad as his contract runs until June 2027.
Injury History and Recent Form
Rodri’s problems began in September 2024 with a ruptured ACL that kept him out for most of the 2024-25 season. Hamstring and groin issues limited him to 33 appearances across all competitions last term, including 17 Premier League starts. In 2022-23 he made 56 appearances and scored the winning goal in the Champions League final.
Contract Situation and Transfer Speculation
With one year left on his deal, Rodri has not agreed to an extension. Reports say he is open to a move back to Spain, and Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has given the green light after earlier doubts about the midfielder’s age and injury record. Journalist Matteo Moretto cites Rodri’s personal approval of a transfer, suggesting contractual terms are unlikely to block a deal, though no formal talks have begun.
Manchester City’s Squad Adjustments
City’s first season under new manager Enzo Maresca starts at home against Bournemouth on August 23. To cover Rodri’s absence, the club completed the £116 million signing of Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest. The Athletic reported on July 21 that midfielders Mateo Kovacic and Nico González are likely to leave, while Bernardo Silva has already departed after his contract expired.
Official Positions and Responses
- Manchester City: Sources say talks with Rodri about his future are being prepared, with Maresca keen to keep him as a key part of the rebuild.
- Real Madrid: Perez’s approval, reported by the Daily Mail, signals willingness to act if City’s stance softens.
- Rodri: In comments to Diario AS before the World Cup final, he said his contract situation would be settled after it expires and that the final would help him decide his next move.
Data Summary
- Contract: Expires June 2027
- Appearances 2022-23: 56 (including Champions League final goal)
- Appearances 2023-24 (all competitions): 33; Premier League starts: 17
- Transfer fee for Elliot Anderson: £116 million
- ACL rupture: September 2024
Timeline
- September 2024 – ACL rupture sidelines Rodri for most of the 2024-25 campaign.
- 2025-26 season – Returns intermittently, limited by hamstring and groin problems.
- July 21 – Reports of likely departures (Kovacic, González) and Silva’s exit.
- August 23 (scheduled) – City’s 2026-27 Premier League opener against Bournemouth.
What’s Next
Rodri’s recovery will dictate his availability for City’s upcoming season, while Real Madrid’s interest depends on the outcome of City’s contract talks and his post-surgery fitness. Both clubs are expected to engage before the start of the 2026-27 campaign.
