Manchester City are reportedly preparing to offer midfielder Rodri a significant new contract to make him their highest-paid player. The Premier League champions, known for retaining key talent, view this move as essential to ward off interest from rival clubs.
However, there may be a financial trade-off involved, with reports suggesting that City could ask Kevin De Bruyne to take a pay cut to facilitate Rodri’s new deal.
Rodri’s Rise to City’s Essential Figure
Since joining Manchester City from Atletico Madrid in 2019, Rodri has solidified his status as one of the club’s most indispensable players. His tactical intelligence, ball control, and ability to read the game have made him the heartbeat of Pep Guardiola’s system. The Spaniard’s absence was keenly felt during the previous season, where City’s rare Premier League defeats coincided with his suspension. His commanding performances didn’t just contribute to City’s domestic success but also played a pivotal role in Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, where Rodri was named the tournament’s best player.
New Contract to Secure City’s Midfield General
Recognizing his crucial contributions on both the club and international stages, City are looking to lock Rodri into a new contract that could see him become the club’s highest-paid player. According to reports, Manchester City are prepared to double his current £375,000-a-week wages. This financial gesture underlines the club’s belief in Rodri’s ability to continue leading them to future success.
However, the decision to elevate Rodri’s salary above other senior figures comes with its complications. With a star-studded squad, keeping harmony in the wage structure is always a challenge. While Rodri’s new deal could send a positive signal of the club’s commitment to retaining talent, it could also create tension within the dressing room if not handled delicately.
Potential Restructuring for De Bruyne
To accommodate Rodri’s potential wage increase, Manchester City may be forced to ask another of their iconic figures, Kevin De Bruyne, to accept a reduced salary. De Bruyne, whose current contract expires at the end of the season, has long been one of the best-paid players in the squad. Reports suggest that City will offer the Belgian a restructured deal with a lower weekly salary, though it would include lucrative bonuses in return.
At 33, De Bruyne remains one of City’s most creative forces, but with the squad evolving and players like Rodri stepping up as leaders, City may see this financial adjustment as necessary for the long-term stability of the team. De Bruyne has been linked with moves to Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer, but it’s believed City are keen to keep him at the club for the foreseeable future. Offering him a revised contract with bonuses tied to performances and appearances could help maintain his place in the squad while freeing up funds for Rodri’s new deal.
Fending Off Real Madrid’s Interest
Rodri’s rise to prominence hasn’t gone unnoticed across Europe, with Real Madrid particularly interested in securing the services of the midfield maestro. The Spanish club has reportedly tried to entice Rodri, with Madrid defender Dani Carvajal admitting that he has personally lobbied for the player to make the switch to the Bernabéu. Carvajal shared in an interview that he often joked with Rodri, urging him to “leave Manchester and come to Madrid,” emphasizing that the Spanish capital, with its sunny weather and status as his hometown, would be a perfect fit for the midfielder.
However, despite the interest from Madrid’s camp, Rodri has made it clear that his future lies in Manchester for now. His contract with City has no release clause, which further strengthens the club’s hand in ensuring that he stays at the Etihad for the foreseeable future.
Balancing the Books and Keeping the Core Intact
Manchester City’s financial prowess has been well-documented, but even the wealthiest clubs must be mindful of balancing wages and maintaining squad morale. Offering Rodri a substantial wage hike signifies the club’s recognition of his importance, but it may come at a cost. If City are to restructure De Bruyne’s contract to make room for Rodri’s pay rise, the Belgian star will need to feel adequately compensated with performance-related incentives.
As City continues to chase domestic and European glory, retaining a balanced, harmonious squad will be key. Rodri has already proven himself to be the midfield general City needs, and keeping him happy with a bumper contract could be the best way to ensure future success. Yet, as they look to reward their Spanish talisman, the club may need to make some tough financial decisions to keep everyone content.
How old is Rodri?
28
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