Rodri’s Blockbuster Barcelona Move: Man City Accept £65.4m Bid

By: Roland James | Columnist | WBN NEWS Africa | August 18, 2026

Manchester City have reportedly accepted a £65.4 million bid from Barcelona for Rodri, bringing one of the most successful chapters in the Spanish midfielder’s career to a dramatic close. The 30-year-old is set to return to Spain after seven hugely successful seasons at the Etihad Stadium.

Rodri’s proposed move to Barcelona represents a major moment in the summer transfer window. According to reports, the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner has agreed to a four-year contract with the La Liga champions, with the final formalities expected to be completed before his presentation in Barcelona.

Since joining Manchester City from Atlético Madrid in 2019 for £62.8 million, Rodri has developed into one of the most influential midfielders in world football. He made 298 appearances for City and helped the club win 12 major honours, including four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three League Cups and the UEFA Champions League.

His defining City moment came in the 2023 Champions League final, when Rodri scored the winning goal against Inter Milan to deliver the club’s first European crown. A year later, his consistency and commanding performances earned him the prestigious Ballon d’Or, further cementing his place among football’s elite.

The departure will leave a significant hole in Manchester City’s midfield. City had hoped to extend Rodri’s contract, but with only one year remaining, the club ultimately accepted Barcelona’s offer after previous bids were rejected.

City manager Enzo Maresca acknowledged Rodri’s importance, describing him as a “top player” while admitting the club could not convince him to remain.

For Barcelona, however, the deal signals ambition. Bringing home a Ballon d’Or-winning Spanish midfielder offers experience, leadership and elite quality as the Catalan giants continue building for the future.

Rodri’s City journey has already changed the club’s history. Now, a new chapter awaits in Barcelona, where his intelligence, resilience and winning mentality could inspire another generation and help create more unforgettable football memories.

Editor: Joseph James Udoh

WBN Global News Desk
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