Man City Manager Maresca Cautious on Rodri Transfer Amid Barcelona, Real Madrid Links
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca offered a non-committal response to Rodri's transfer speculation, stating 'anything can happen' before the window closes.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has remained tight-lipped regarding the future of midfielder Rodri, amidst speculation linking the Spanish international with moves to Barcelona and Real Madrid. Maresca stated that "anything can happen" before the transfer window officially closes.
The uncertainty surrounding Rodri's future intensified following a viral social media post showing what appeared to be the player travelling on a budget airline from Madrid. The image, which gained traction online, depicted Rodri with a small suitcase featuring his name and national team insignia.
Despite the circulated image, it is understood that Real Madrid, a prominent club in La Liga, has reportedly scaled back its interest in Rodri due to the significant financial commitment required for such a transfer. Maresca, speaking to reporters ahead of the Community Shield clash against Arsenal, acknowledged the fluid nature of the transfer market. "The transfer window is open, we can buy and sell players, anything can happen," he said. He also confirmed that Rodri is fit to resume training after undergoing back surgery in late July.
Maresca's comments come as he prepares for his first major fixture with Manchester City, the Community Shield against Arsenal. He stressed that his immediate focus is on the upcoming match rather than player incomings or outgoings. "Now in this moment, 48 hours before a final, my first in this club, my focus is not about players leaving or arriving, it’s just how we can prepare the best way in the game and try to win the final," Maresca stated.
When questioned about potential new signings, Maresca indicated that the club might be active, depending on player departures. "For sure there are things we need to do. For now, how many, I don’t know. It can be one, it can be two (players)," he explained. "Depends also if players are going to leave. It depends."
The manager also dismissed the notion that the Community Shield is a mere friendly match, emphasizing the club's determination to secure silverware. "For me personally it’s a trophy. And when the trophy is there, the final is there, you always try to win the game," Maresca asserted. "So no friendly at all. It’s a trophy that we’re going to try our best to win."
Rodri has been a pivotal player for Manchester City in recent seasons, playing a crucial role in their numerous successes. His potential departure would represent a significant shift for the team, making Maresca's cautious approach to the transfer window particularly noteworthy.
The transfer window remains open for several more weeks, leaving room for further developments concerning Rodri's future and Manchester City's squad composition.
This article was written by AI based on publicly available news reporting. Original reporting by the linked source.