Barcelona have completed the signing of Spanish midfielder Rodri from Manchester City in a deal worth approximately £65 million, the Catalan club announced.
The 30-year-old, who won the 2024 Ballon d’Or, has agreed a four-year contract and returns to Spanish football for the first time since leaving Atletico Madrid in 2019.
Rodri spent seven seasons at Manchester City, making 298 appearances and collecting 12 major trophies, including four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three EFL Cups and the 2023 Champions League.
Injury limited his contribution in his final two campaigns at the Etihad Stadium, but he regained peak form at this summer’s World Cup, earning player of the tournament honours as Spain claimed a second global title.
Real Madrid had been considered favourites to secure the midfielder as he entered the final year of his City contract. However, sources indicated Barcelona obtained Rodri’s approval to open talks.
City rejected an initial Barcelona offer of £38.5 million before the two clubs reached agreement.
Rodri arrived in Barcelona on Monday and told journalists at the airport that joining the club was a “dream.”
The transfer strengthens Barcelona’s midfield options ahead of the new La Liga season.
