Rodrigo shows favor towards Real Madrid? Says he cannot refuse the top-tier club and also praises Vinicius.

During the international match period in March, Manchester City's 29-year-old Spanish midfielder Rodrigo returned to the Spanish national team and gave an interview on a radio program, discussing transfer rumors related to Real Madrid. This time, Rodrigo even seemed somewhat favorable towards Real Madrid and highly praised his former Ballon d'Or competitor Vinicius.

Regarding the transfer rumors with Real Madrid, Rodrigo stated: My contract with Manchester City expires in 2027, and after this season, there will be one year left. I will eventually sit down with Manchester City's management to discuss. However, no player can refuse the world's top-tier club. I have played for Atletico Madrid, but that doesn't mean I cannot play for Real Madrid.

Apart from expressing admiration for Real Madrid, Rodrigo also highly praised Real Madrid star Vinicius. Rodrigo said: The media is creating a rivalry and conflict between me and Vinicius over the Ballon d'Or, but I greatly admire Vinicius. He is a fantastic player with exceptional attacking abilities.

Personal viewpoint: Manchester City had no major trophies last season. Although they won the League Cup this season, they were eliminated in the Champions League quarter-finals, and with a 9-point gap in the Premier League, they are essentially facing two consecutive years without major titles. What will happen with Guardiola? British media have already reported rumors of Guardiola leaving this summer. Manchester City may need to undergo a rebuild. Rodrigo's performance has declined significantly after a major injury. If Manchester City can sell the Spanish Ballon d'Or-winning midfielder to Real Madrid, it would be entirely acceptable. Now, it's about selling Rodrigo with one year left on his contract, but Real Madrid may not truly be interested in a 30-year-old Rodrigo whose form has noticeably declined.