Rodri explains £65.4m Barcelona exit after seven years at Man City

Rodri has confirmed his transfer from Manchester City to Barcelona for a reported £65.4 million, completing the move on Tuesday, August 17, 2026. The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner said he left after seven years at the Etihad because it felt like the right moment to write a new chapter, adding that both he and the club are proud of their time together. He emphasized that his heart will always remain blue and that City will always have him for anything they need.

For Nigerian football fans, the transfer marks one of the biggest summer moves in European football, highlighting the continued rise of African‑born players achieving global accolades. Rodri’s departure weakens Manchester City’s midfield options, while Barcelona gains a World Cup‑winning defensive midfielder to bolster their La Liga and Champions League campaigns.

Details of the deal: the fee is payable in installments, with Barcelona securing the player until 2031. Rodri will wear the number 4 shirt, previously held by Sergi Roberto. Fans can expect to see him in action when Barcelona opens its La Liga season against Villarreal on August 24. Nigerian supporters wishing to follow his debut can tune in via SuperSport or stream through the league’s official app.

Will you adjust your weekend viewing plans to catch Rodri’s first Barcelona appearance, or will you focus on how Manchester City reshapes its midfield without him?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/08/19/epl-why-i-left-man-city-for-barcelona-rodri/