Rodri arrives for FC Barcelona medical, says 'We will fight for every title'

Rodri has arrived in Barcelona to complete his medical and seal his blockbuster move from Manchester City. The Spain midfielder called the transfer a dream come true and immediately set his sights on winning every major title.

In Short

• The 30-year-old would end a trophy-laden seven-year spell at City
• He won four Premier League titles and City's 2023 European crown
• Rodri said joining Barcelona was a dream and he knew teammates

Rodri, the Manchester City and Spain midfielder, has arrived in Barcelona to complete his medical ahead of his blockbuster move to FC Barcelona. The 30-year-old is closing in on a 76.5 million euros transfer that will bring his seven-year spell at the Etihad to an end.

Rodri landed at Barcelona's El Prat airport after an intense few days that saw the two clubs finally reach an agreement. Speaking to reporters, he said he was delighted to have the move completed.

“I'm very happy to be here. It's been an intense few days, but I'm glad everything is sorted out,” Rodri said.

“Playing for Barcelona is a dream come true for me. I'm really looking forward to being with my teammates, most of whom I already know from the national team, so now it's time to work hard and give my best,” he added.

RODRI'S BARCA DREAM COMES TRUE

Rodri also made Barcelona's ambitions clear, insisting the club will target the biggest prizes immediately.

“We're going for the Champions League, we're going for everything that comes our way,” he said.

The move ends a hugely successful seven-year stint at Manchester City, where Rodri became a central figure in midfield. He won four Premier League titles and scored the only goal in City's 2023 Champions League final victory over Inter Milan.

He also claimed the Ballon d'Or in 2024, although injuries have disrupted his recent seasons. An ACL injury ruled him out for much of the 2024-25 campaign, while hamstring and groin problems limited him to 33 appearances in City's most recent season.

WHY CITY AGREED TO SELL

Manchester City had hoped to retain their midfield linchpin, particularly with Rodri entering the final year of his contract. Barcelona's initial bids were rejected, but the Catalan club eventually secured the deal after improving their offer to 76.5 million euros.

Rodri's departure leaves City with another significant midfield hole. The club have already invested heavily in the position and are closing in on Lille youngster Ayyoub Bouaddi, while Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez remains on their radar.

For Barcelona, Rodri's arrival adds experience, control and elite-level pedigree to a midfield already packed with Spain internationals. If his medical goes smoothly, the club are expected to confirm the signing, with his formal presentation scheduled for Wednesday.

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