en.malanginspirasi.com – Spain’s World Cup-winning midfielder Rodrigo Hernandez or Rodri has officially finalized his move to Barcelona, ending a glittering seven-year spell at Manchester City and declaring his eagerness to feel that excitement again in La Liga.
The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner has put pen to paper on a four-year contract at the Camp Nou after Barcelona agreed to a transfer fee reported to be in the region of £65 million.
This high-profile switch marks Rodri’s return to Spanish football for the first time since departing Atlético Madrid in 2019.
“I’m very happy and excited about this new stage in my career. It’s a fresh challenge, a chance to experience new things and feel that excitement again,” Rodri said.
“I’ve come to a hugely ambitious club that really suits my personality, so I’ll try to help in every way I can to achieve our objectives this season,” he continued.
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The 30-year-old midfielder also shared his thoughts on playing under Barcelona’s German manager, Hansi Flick.
“I’m happy to have a coach who I think will bring a lot to my career. It’s a style that I think is somewhat different from what I’ve experienced before, so it will be enriching and help me grow as a player.”
A Decorated Legacy at Manchester City
Rodri departs the Etihad Stadium having established himself as one of the game’s elite midfielders.
Across 298 appearances for City, he secured 12 major honors, including four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, three EFL Cups, and the pivotal UEFA Champions League trophy in 2023.
Although injuries disrupted his final two seasons with the English club, Rodri bounced back to peak form during the summer World Cup, earning player of the tournament honors as Spain captured the trophy for the second time.
Bidding farewell to the Manchester City supporters, Rodri delivered an emotional parting message:
“I am leaving the club with a huge sense of pride about what we have achieved and gratitude too for so many amazing memories.
“What we have done together in these years is something both very special and unforgettable.
“City didn’t just make me a grow as a player. They made me grow as a human. I saw my brother graduating from Manchester Metropolitan University. I could see my girlfriend working for the NHS. Manchester shaped my whole life.”
