Rodri arrives in Barcelona ahead of signing: "Let's go for the Champions League"
The Spanish national team captain arrived in the Catalan capital to finalize his move from Manchester City to Barcelona, with a contract expected until 2030. The midfielder stated: "Playing for Barcelona is a dream for me."
After days of waiting and intense negotiations, Rodri arrived today, Monday, in Barcelona to complete one of the biggest deals of the summer. The 30-year-old Manchester City midfielder and captain of the Spanish national team landed at the city's private aviation terminal, accompanied by his staff and agent. Only formal stages remain before his official joining of the Catalan club.
Rodri is expected to sign a contract with Barcelona until 2030, in a deal the club considers one of its most significant in recent years. Upon landing, he spoke with local media and did not hide his excitement:
"I am very happy. These were intense days, but I am happy that everything was resolved. Playing for Barcelona is a dream for me. I am looking forward to meeting my new teammates, many of whom I already know from the Spanish national team. Now it is time to work and give my best. Let's go for the Champions League and everything that comes along the way."
After leaving the airport, Rodri will head to his hotel to meet with Barcelona representatives for dinner. Club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco are expected to lead the delegation for his first meeting with the president ahead of the official signing.
Tomorrow is the central day in the process: in the morning, Rodri will undergo medical examinations, and if all is clear, he will complete the signing of the contract. The club is already preparing for his official presentation at noon.
Rodri's arrival will provide Hansi Flick with a player capable of controlling the game's pace, adding authority and experience to the center of the field, and providing tactical leadership. However, fans will have to wait to see him on the pitch. Rodri is not expected to debut against Al-Ahli, as he has not yet trained with his new teammates. Additionally, the midfielder underwent surgery following a back issue after the World Cup, so Barcelona intends to manage his return to activity carefully.
Rodri is expected to participate alongside Joao Cancelo in the Joan Gamper Trophy on Wednesday, marking his first appearance before Barcelona fans at the Camp Nou as a team player.
