Maresca reveals: Rodri returns to Manchester on Friday
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Spanish midfielder Rodri will return to the club on Friday, which could accelerate negotiations with Barcelona, who are keen to sign him.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Spanish midfielder Rodri will return to the club on Friday, which could accelerate negotiations with Barcelona, who are keen to sign him.
The future of Rodri, one of Manchester City's key players and the best player at the last World Cup, could soon become clear. City boss Enzo Maresca has confirmed that the Spanish midfielder will return to Manchester on Friday, which could be a pivotal moment in the transfer talks with Barcelona.
Maresca shared the news about Rodri's return after the pre-season friendly against Atletico Madrid. "As things stand, he will be in Manchester on Friday," the Italian coach said briefly, and his comments were also relayed on social media by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.
According to Spanish outlet AS, Barcelona are currently best placed to sign Rodri. The Catalan club have reportedly already submitted a bid of around €50 million, with an additional €10 million in add-ons, but Manchester City have rejected it. The English champions are holding out for around €65 million for their midfielder, so another attempt from Barcelona is expected.
Rodri is still on holiday while City play their pre-season friendlies, and his future is one of the biggest unresolved issues in the squad. The Spaniard is reportedly desperate to join Barcelona, but the key is for him to make that clear to City's hierarchy.
Rodri's return to Manchester could be crucial in reaching a final decision. City want to know as soon as possible whether they can count on him, and his decision will also influence the club's further moves in the transfer market and the distribution of captaincy roles in the dressing room.
After the win over Atletico, Maresca also spoke about another player whose future is uncertain. The Italian hinted that Omar Marmoush will make a decision about his fate in the coming days, further underlining the importance of the next week for the English club.
