Maresca breaks silence on Rodri future as Barcelona move remains in limbo
Enzo Maresca has refused to guarantee Rodri’s Manchester City future as Barcelona continue negotiations for the Spain midfielder.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has refused to provide certainty over Rodri’s future as Barcelona continue their pursuit of the Spain international, leaving the midfielder’s situation increasingly intriguing with the summer transfer window approaching its final weeks.
Speaking ahead of Sunday’s Community Shield meeting with Arsenal, Maresca acknowledged that transfers could still alter his squad, despite Rodri returning to Manchester following his extended post-World Cup break and recovery from back surgery.
“The transfer window is open… we can buy players, we can sell, anything can happen,” Maresca said, before revealing that he had recently welcomed Rodri back with a hug and felt the midfielder looked well.
The comments come as Barcelona continue working on a deal for the 30-year-old, with reports indicating that the Catalan club have already had two proposals rejected by City.
Barcelona’s latest offer was reportedly worth about €60 million, while City are believed to want a significantly higher figure before considering a sale.
Rodri’s contract at the Etihad runs until 2027, but his reported preference for Barcelona has added another layer to negotiations.
ESPN reports that Barça intend to return with another proposal as talks continue, while City are assessing their midfield options should the former Ballon d’Or winner eventually depart.
The situation could also have wider consequences for Maresca’s squad-building plans, with City reportedly considering replacements while other midfield changes are already taking place.
For now, Rodri has returned to training with City, but Maresca’s careful wording suggests the door remains open to a late transfer, leaving Barcelona with hope that their pursuit can eventually produce an agreement.
