Manchester City’s Confidence in Rodri’s Future
Manchester City remains confident that Rodri will sign a new contract, despite the central midfielder expressing interest in a potential move to Real Madrid. Manager Pep Guardiola has shown strong belief in the 29-year-old’s commitment to the club, stating that City has already made an offer to the Ballon d’Or winner ahead of the final year of his current deal.
Rodri had previously indicated that Real Madrid would be a tough proposition to turn down, and he emphasized that his past association with city rivals Atletico would not hinder his ambitions. Guardiola acknowledged this sentiment but remained optimistic about Rodri’s future at Manchester City.
“I know what the club wants,” Guardiola said. “They informed me what they want from Rodri — it is to stay, stay, stay.”
When asked if he believes Rodri will remain at the Etihad Stadium, Guardiola responded positively: “I think so. Always I had the positive (feeling) with that. There is not one player who will turn down the chance to play for Madrid. He was born in Spain. Always my wish is that Rodri could stay as long as possible in this club.”
Guardiola also mentioned that Rodri appears to be happy at the club and encouraged him to reach out to sporting director Hugo Viana if he ever felt otherwise. “If he is not happy just knock on the door of the sporting director… after that he don’t belong to the club,” he added. “Now I have the feeling over the last one or two games that he’s really back.”
Phil Foden’s Form and Guardiola’s Support
While Rodri’s future seems secure, Phil Foden’s recent form has come under scrutiny following England’s two friendlies ahead of the World Cup. Manager Thomas Tuchel has cast doubt on Foden’s inclusion in the 26-man squad, but Guardiola has defended his star player.
“Last season was Phil’s worst,” Guardiola said. “But this one until November was really good. There are the Wayne Rooneys and this type of player… have they been for 15 years all the time incredible? I don’t know, I don’t remember. Maybe one season or half season there was a little bit of a drop, it’s normal – except maybe Messi and Cristiano.”
Despite starting only three of the last 14 games in all competitions, Guardiola urged Foden to rise to the challenge. “How many titles does Phil have?” he added. “All the titles we have won Phil was there and he’s been important in that. It’s not like he was a player who only sometimes played. It was completely the opposite.”
Guardiola also highlighted Foden’s awareness of the need to improve. “It is up to him, as quickly as possible he has to realise ‘I have to do better’, go to the simplicity. He’s aware of that so OK, take it like a challenge. I know Phil perfectly and what he’s capable of.”
He concluded by encouraging Foden to seize the opportunity to represent England. “I’m pretty sure he would love to go with England. These opportunities cannot be missed. If you have an opportunity, play as good as possible to be selected because it’s only one every four years.”
