Award-winning broadcaster and football analyst Adam Catterall has warned that Manchester City’s Premier League title ambitions could suffer a major setback if midfielder Rodri leaves the club this summer.
Rodri has been strongly linked with a move to Real Madrid following his impressive performances for Spain at the FIFA World Cup, where he played a key role in the country’s triumph.
Speaking on talkSPORT’s Saturday Session, Catterall said the Spanish midfielder has fully recovered from the injury struggles that affected his form last season and has returned to his best.
According to the analyst, Rodri remains Manchester City’s most influential player, insisting the club would struggle to reclaim the Premier League crown without him.
“There is considerable discussion surrounding Rodri after his outstanding World Cup performance with Spain. After his injury last year, he wasn’t at his exceptional best, but the World Cup has shown that the Ballon d’Or contender is back to top form,” Catterall said.
“I genuinely believe that if Rodri joins Real Madrid during this transfer window, Manchester City’s chances of winning the Premier League will be severely damaged. His influence is that significant. He must remain at City if they are to mount a serious title challenge this season.”
Reports suggest Real Madrid are pushing to complete Rodri’s signing before the start of the 2026-27 campaign. The 30-year-old is yet to accept Manchester City’s contract extension offer, with his current deal due to expire next June.
Meanwhile, City have already strengthened their midfield by signing Elliot Anderson for £116 million and are also monitoring Morocco international Ayyoub Bouaddi as they prepare for the possibility of Rodri’s departure.