Rodri Completes £65m Transfer from Manchester City to Barcelona

Spain’s World Cup-winning midfielder Rodri says he is eager to “experience that excitement once more” after joining Barcelona from Manchester City.

The 2024 Ballon d’Or recipient has agreed to a four-year deal at Camp Nou, with Barcelona paying approximately £65m for his transfer. The move takes him back to Spanish football for the first time since departing Atletico Madrid in 2019.

“I feel extremely happy and enthusiastic about this next chapter of my career. It represents a new challenge, an opportunity to discover different experiences and recover that sense of excitement,” Rodri said.

“I have joined a highly ambitious club that matches my character very well, and I will do everything possible to help us accomplish our goals this season.”

Speaking about working with German coach Hansi Flick, Rodri said: “I am pleased to have a manager who I believe can make a significant contribution to my development. His approach is different in some ways from what I have previously experienced, which should be valuable and help me improve as a footballer.”

The 30-year-old departs Manchester City after seven seasons, during which he played 298 matches and collected 12 major trophies. His honours include four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three EFL Cups and the Champions League in 2023.

Injuries affected his last two campaigns with the club, but he rediscovered his best form at this summer’s World Cup. He was voted the tournament’s outstanding player as Spain secured the trophy for a second time.

In a message thanking the supporters, Rodri said: “I leave with immense pride in everything we accomplished and deep appreciation for the many wonderful memories we created.

“The achievements we shared over these years were truly remarkable and will remain unforgettable.”

“The club did more than help me develop as a footballer. It also helped me mature as a person. I watched my brother graduate from Manchester Metropolitan University, while my girlfriend built her career in the NHS. Manchester became a defining part of my life.”