Real Madrid’s Rodrygo has spoken candidly for the first time about the intense summer speculation that linked him with a blockbuster move to Manchester City. The Brazilian forward was reportedly one of Pep Guardiola’s top attacking targets, with City viewing him as a potential replacement for Savinho, amid the latter’s links with Tottenham Hotspur in August.
Despite widespread media reports suggesting advanced discussions, Rodrygo ultimately remained at the Santiago Bernabéu, where he has since reaffirmed his commitment to the Spanish giants. The 24-year-old has already won two UEFA Champions League titles and remains an integral part of Xabi Alonso’s setup this season.
City’s Interest in Rodrygo
Manchester City’s pursuit of attacking reinforcements was a major talking point throughout the summer window. The departures of Raheem Sterling, Leroy Sané, and Riyad Mahrez in recent seasons have left Pep Guardiola’s side without the same level of depth and goal contribution from wide areas.
While Omar Marmoush was recruited from Eintracht Frankfurt to bolster attacking options, City’s creative burden has continued to fall largely on Erling Haaland, who has already scored 12 goals in all competitions this season. The club viewed Rodrygo as a versatile and technically gifted winger capable of easing that pressure and fitting seamlessly into Guardiola’s tactical system.
Rodrygo Responds to Transfer Rumours
Speaking to AS, as quoted by Goal, Rodrygo addressed the transfer saga that dominated headlines during the summer window.
“Every summer, the same thing happens to me,” Rodrygo began. “Whether I’m going to leave or whether I have offers from this club or that. Every week, I was in a team if I paid attention to what was published.”
“Of course, there are always offers; I’m not going to lie about that. But I always made it clear to the club that I want to continue succeeding here, even more than I already have. It’s a lot to have won two Champions Leagues at my age, but now I want more European Cups in this shirt.”
Rodrygo further added, “I’ve always said: ‘As long as Real Madrid wants me, I’ll be here.’ If one day Real Madrid says to me: ‘Rodry, find a team,’ I’ll say ‘OK.’ But that hasn’t happened. The club has always told me they count on me. People speculated because I kept quiet, but I knew what I was going to do this season with Real Madrid.”
Rodrygo on His Relationship with Xabi Alonso
The Brazilian also shed light on his working relationship with new Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso, revealing how the Spaniard has used him in various attacking roles.
“When the manager arrived, he called me to talk and said: ‘I know you like playing on the left, but I’m going to need you in other positions too.’ I told him, ‘Okay manager, I’m here to help the team.’”
“Everyone knows I prefer playing on the left and that I’m much better on that wing, but I’m always available to the team to play on the right or as a number nine. The truth is, he’s only putting me on the left, and I like the level of minutes I’m getting.”
Rodrygo concluded, “I’m doing well, although I want to play more. I’m in a process of evolution, and I feel happy. I’m performing better and better.”
Aftermath and City’s Alternative Moves
Following the breakdown of Savinho’s proposed move to Tottenham, Manchester City secured the Brazilian forward’s long-term future by handing him a new contract. The deal reportedly includes a significant wage increase and a release clause to facilitate potential future moves.
For Rodrygo, remaining at Real Madrid appears to have been the right decision — at least for now. However, given City’s ongoing search for a world-class wide forward, this transfer story may not be over in future windows.
FAQs
1. Was Manchester City really interested in signing Rodrygo?
Yes. Reports indicated that Manchester City identified Rodrygo as a key target to strengthen their attack, viewing him as a potential successor to Riyad Mahrez.
2. Why didn’t the transfer happen?
Rodrygo made it clear he wanted to stay at Real Madrid, while the Spanish club reaffirmed their commitment to keeping him. No formal offer was accepted or advanced to final negotiations.
3. Did Real Madrid plan to sell Rodrygo?
No. Despite speculation, Real Madrid maintained that Rodrygo was an important part of their squad under Xabi Alonso.
4. What role does Rodrygo play under Xabi Alonso?
Rodrygo has primarily been used on the left wing, though he has also featured on the right and as a central forward depending on tactical requirements.
5. Who did Manchester City sign instead?
City added Omar Marmoush from Eintracht Frankfurt and retained Savinho after his proposed move to Tottenham collapsed.
Conclusion
Rodrygo’s decision to stay at Real Madrid puts an end to one of the more intriguing transfer sagas of the summer. While Manchester City continue to look for long-term attacking reinforcements, the Brazilian’s loyalty to Los Blancos demonstrates his commitment to building a lasting legacy at the Bernabéu. Still, with Pep Guardiola always keeping an eye on world-class talent, the Rodrygo-to-City rumours may yet resurface in the near future.
