The future of Manchester City midfielder Rodri Hernandez is dominating the final hours of the summer transfer window, with the Spain international’s next move reportedly lying between Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Rodri, who was named the best player at the 2026 World Cup, had appeared to be heading towards Real Madrid. However, Barcelona are monitoring the situation and could emerge as his preferred destination if the midfielder decides he wants to wear the club’s famous blaugrana shirt.
According to Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo, French content creator Riles has offered his view on the uncertainty surrounding Rodri in his latest video. Riles has a significant following on YouTube and is linked to several French players at Real Madrid.
He expressed disappointment at the possibility that Rodri could choose Barcelona over Real Madrid, while stressing that his information did not come directly from the Madrid club.
“Rodri is supposed to rule out Real Madrid, and I fear this is because of Barcelona. I fear Rodri has let Real Madrid down, and the reason is Barcelona,” Riles said.
He added: “What I am telling you does not come from Madrid, but I am confident about this. There is a theory that the reason for all this delay is to explore the possibility of registering with Barcelona. I am 99% certain that Rodri has let us down for Barcelona.”
Riles then claimed that he had received information suggesting the midfielder had already made his decision.
“The French YouTuber continued: “Rodri would choose Barcelona. I hope I am wrong, that is all I have to say. I have received exclusive information that Rodri chose Barcelona, and I hope I am not wrong.”
The claims remain unconfirmed, and there has been no official announcement from Rodri, Manchester City, Real Madrid or Barcelona regarding the midfielder’s future.
Rodri remains under contract with Manchester City until 2027. His current club reportedly value a potential transfer between €60m and €65m.
The midfielder’s situation is therefore continuing to attract attention as the summer transfer window approaches its conclusion. Real Madrid had appeared to be in pole position for his signature, but the latest speculation has raised the prospect of a move to Barcelona instead.
Riles’ comments, described as “exclusive” and made with “99%” certainty, have added to the uncertainty, although they do not amount to confirmation that Rodri has chosen Barcelona.
