The search for the “metronome” of Real Madrid’s midfield has taken a dramatic turn, as the club intensifies its efforts to find a definitive successor to Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.
Despite boasting incredible talents like Jude Bellingham and Fede Valverde, the European champions have yet to find the perfect tactical equilibrium that defined their previous era of dominance.
Now, all eyes have turned toward Manchester City’s “irreplaceable” anchor, Rodri, whose future in England has been cast into doubt following recent family revelations.
Antonio Hernandez, Rodri’s father, recently stirred the pot by refusing to commit his son’s long-term future to the Etihad Stadium.
While acknowledging that the Spanish international is currently comfortable under Pep Guardiola, Hernandez noted that the player’s path beyond his 2027 contract remains unwritten.
These comments have resonated deeply in Madrid, where club chiefs are reportedly monitoring the transfer market for a world-class midfielder capable of restoring the stability lost since the legendary trio of Kroos, Casemiro, and Modric was dismantled.
Rodri’s Father Fuels Speculation Over Blockbuster Real Madrid Move
While Rodri is widely regarded as the premier defensive midfielder in world football, any potential move carries significant risk.
Since returning from a devastating ACL tear suffered in late 2024, the 29-year-old has been plagued by recurring muscle issues, limiting him to just 14 appearances this season.
This physical decline has sparked internal debate at the Bernabeu; while his footballing intelligence is undeniable, some argue that the club should prioritize younger, more durable targets like Vitinha or Bayern Munich’s Aleksandar Pavlovic.
However, the allure of bringing the Madrid-born star back to his home city remains a powerful narrative.
As Manchester City navigates the final years of Rodri’s current deal, the pressure to secure his signature or cash in on his immense value is mounting.
For Real Madrid, the decision will come down to a choice between immediate world-class experience and the long-term health of their midfield project.
Whether Rodri becomes the latest centerpiece of the new “Galacticos” remains the biggest question of the upcoming summer window.
