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It's official. Barcelona confirmed on Tuesday the signing of Rodri, the 30-year-old Spanish international midfielder, who has penned a contract with the Catalan club until June 2030. The player's desire to don the Blaugrana shirt was a decisive factor in sealing the transfer. The Catalan giants paid €76.5 million for his services, comprising €60 million upfront and an additional €16.5 million in bonuses.
In one of the most significant moves of this summer transfer window, Hansi Flick's squad has secured a formidable reinforcement for their midfield. Rodri, who had just one year remaining on his Manchester City contract, arrived in Barcelona on Monday afternoon and underwent the customary medical examinations this morning at the Ciutat Esportiva, expressing immediate enthusiasm and ambition for this new chapter in his career.
Despite strong interest from other top clubs, including José Mourinho's Real Madrid, and City's intention to either renew his deal or retain him until his contract expired, the player's decision proved crucial. Barcelona has thus secured the services of one of the most highly-rated players in world football, who will be presented to the fans this Wednesday at the Gamper Trophy.
Rodri, captain of the Spanish national team and winner of the 2024 Ballon d'Or, concludes a hugely successful spell in Manchester, where he arrived in the 2019/20 season under Pep Guardiola. During his time in England, he lifted, among other trophies, a UEFA Champions League, four Premier League titles, and a Club World Cup. This summer, he also became a world champion with Spain.
The midfielder now returns to LaLiga, having previously represented Villarreal and Atlético Madrid, to join Hansi Flick's project. At the Catalan club, Rodri will reunite with several Spanish national teammates, including Olmo, Eric García, Ferran, Gavi, and Joan García, aiming to add more silverware to his already extensive trophy cabinet.
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