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 Spains media day ahead of the World Cup, the 29-year-old was asked about Real Madrids reported interest and replied: Its part of football. Im focused on being a leader in the national team. Thats my way. I understand the noise, but Im not going to spend my time on that. Well see after the World Cup.Table of ContentsRodri ready for World Cup challenge with SpainRodri dismisses favourites tag and looks forward to long and demanding World CupRodri ready for World Cup challenge with SpainRodri won the 2024 Ballon dOr after playing a key role in Citys Premier League triumph and Spains 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 Spains campaign in the United States, Canada and Mexico.He added: Im ready. Its the first time Ive arrived fresh and without so many games. Ive 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 CupSpain 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 Fuentes 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.Its going to be a unique World Cup. There will be someone who will provide a surprise. We have to show what we are. Topics Manchester City F.C. Real Madrid CF Spain National Football Team Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read How long is Lamine Yamal out? Latest news, injury update and Barcelona and Spain wingers reaction to hamstring problem before 2026 FIFA World Cup Ben Miller 1st June, 2026 Record-breaking former Liverpool and Man City midfielder Milner retires: It has been an incredible privilege Jon Fisher 1st June, 2026 Real Madrid named most valuable club in the world Mitch Fretton 29th May, 2026 Mourinho reportedly signs three-year contract at Real Madrid Nicholas McGee 29th May, 2026 Real Madrid: Perez claims hes yet to speak with Mourinho about replacing Arbeloa Nicholas McGee 29th May, 2026 Modric set to decide future with Real Madrid ready to welcome midfielder home after World Cup Mitch Fretton 28th May, 2026
