Hansi Flick has reportedly played a decisive role in convincing Manchester City midfielder Rodri to favour a move to Barcelona over Real Madrid, in a dramatic twist to one of the summer transfer window’s biggest sagas.
Rodri had been strongly linked with Real Madrid, with the Spanish giants viewing the midfielder as a long-term addition to their midfield. However, negotiations reportedly stalled, allowing Barcelona to make a late push for the 30-year-old.
Flick’s Personal Approach
According to reports, Flick personally contacted Rodri to explain Barcelona’s sporting project and, more importantly, how the midfielder would fit into his tactical plans.
The Barcelona coach reportedly made Rodri aware of the important role he could play in the team’s midfield, particularly with Frenkie de Jong’s long-term absence due to injury. Flick sees Rodri as the type of experienced holding midfielder capable of controlling games, protecting the defence and dictating possession.
The direct conversation appears to have had an impact. Reports now claim Rodri has indicated that Barcelona is his preferred destination, giving the Catalan club permission to move forward with talks with Manchester City.
Barcelona’s Sporting Project
Flick’s pitch was reportedly about more than simply offering Rodri a contract. Barcelona presented him with a central role in a team built around young talent and an attacking style of football.
Rodri would also return to La Liga and potentially become one of the key leaders of Barcelona’s midfield. His experience at Manchester City and with Spain would provide an important balance to Barcelona’s younger players.
Reports suggest Rodri is particularly convinced by Flick’s vision for the team. While nothing has been finalised, his apparent preference has given Barcelona confidence that a deal could be possible.
Real Madrid Facing a Major Setback
The development represents a significant setback for Real Madrid. The club had been pursuing Rodri, who is also a Madrid native, but its negotiations reportedly failed to progress quickly enough.
Barcelona’s renewed interest has therefore created an unexpected transfer battle between the two Spanish giants. Madrid’s hesitation appears to have given Flick and Barcelona an opportunity to change the player’s thinking.
Transfer Still Not Completed
Despite Rodri’s reported preference, a transfer is far from guaranteed. Barcelona still needs to reach an agreement with Manchester City over the transfer fee and ensure the financial conditions are workable.
City are reportedly open to a sale, with the midfielder entering the final year of his contract, but the English club has not completely abandoned the possibility of keeping him.
For now, Flick’s personal intervention appears to have shifted the balance dramatically. What looked like a likely move to Real Madrid could now turn into one of the biggest transfer surprises of the summer, with Rodri potentially heading to Barcelona instead.
