By Dorcas Francis Koji
Spain captain Rodri has officially begun a new chapter of his career after completing his move from Manchester City to Barcelona, declaring that he is ready to “feel that excitement again” following seven trophy-filled seasons in England.
Barcelona confirmed on Tuesday that the 30-year-old midfielder has signed a contract running until 2030, bringing an end to one of the summer’s longest-running transfer sagas.
The Spanish champions eventually reached an agreement with Manchester City on Sunday after two previous bids were rejected. A source from the English club told AFP that the transfer could reach €76.5m ($88.6m) including bonuses.
Rodri travelled to Barcelona the following day to finalise his personal terms before being officially unveiled by the Catalan club on Tuesday.
“I’m very happy and excited about this new stage in my career,” Rodri said during his presentation.
“It’s a fresh challenge, a chance to experience new things and feel that excitement again.”
Rodri leaves City after an immensely successful spell at the Etihad Stadium, where he became one of Pep Guardiola’s most trusted players.
The former Atlético Madrid and Villarreal midfielder helped City win the 2023 Champions League and four Premier League titles among a haul of 12 major trophies.
His performances also earned him the 2024 Ballon d’Or, while he played a central role in Spain’s World Cup triumph in North America last month.
Rodri had reportedly attracted interest from Real Madrid following Spain’s World Cup success, but ultimately chose to join their fierce domestic rivals.
His move to Barcelona also reunites him with several Spain teammates, including Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Dani Olmo.
The midfielder is expected to bring experience, defensive discipline and leadership to a Barcelona side that has dominated domestically but continues to chase another Champions League crown.
Barcelona last won Europe’s premier club competition in 2015, when Lionel Messi, Neymar and Luis Suárez formed the attacking trio that guided the club to its fifth Champions League title.
Rodri has already made clear that European success is among his biggest ambitions.
“It’s a pleasure to be at Barca. I’ll give 100 percent of everything I have,” he said.
“I’m here to compete for everything, for big things like the Champions League.”
“I’ve come to a hugely ambitious club that really suits my personality, so I’ll try to help in every way I can to achieve our objectives this season.”
Rodri will now work under Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, whose tactical approach he believes can add another dimension to his development.
“Flick has a style that I think is somewhat different from what I’ve experienced before, so it will be enriching and help me grow as a player,” Rodri said.
The midfielder also reflected emotionally on his departure from Manchester City, expressing pride in everything he achieved during his time at the club.
“I am leaving the club with a huge sense of pride about what we have achieved and gratitude too for so many amazing memories,” Rodri said in a statement published by City.
“What we have done together in these years is something both very special and unforgettable.”
Rodri will now begin preparations for his first season in Barcelona colours, with the Spanish giants expecting their new midfield leader to play a major role in their pursuit of domestic and European honours.
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