Manchester City secure the future of important ‘star player’ with a new contract

My Football Facts ⇒ Articles

By Martin Graham | 13th Jul 2022

On Tuesday, Manchester City seemingly concluded what many might not realize as a massive piece of business. Though the Citizens might have signed Erling Haaland and Kalvin Phillips, the contract extension by Rodri could yet be one of their most important ‘signings’ this summer. The Spanish midfielder has signed a three-year contract extension, committing his future to the club until June 2027.

Rodri has been the driving force in City’s midfield for the past three seasons after arriving from Atletico Madrid in a big money move. He was on hand to score one of City’s most important goals last season, with an equalizer against Aston Villa setting the tone for a dramatic end to the campaign as City claimed their fourth Premier League title in the past five seasons.

Rodri’s current contract was due to run out in 2024 but Manchester City have taken the early initiative to extend his terms, offering him a three-year addition to match his importance at the club so far.

The reactions – Rodri signs new contract with City

An excited Rodri was delighted to extend his stay at the club and was quick to thank Pep Guardiola for helping his overall game improve.

“Joining City in 2019 is the best decision I have made in my career,” the Spaniard told the club’s official website. “I have loved every second. The fans have been amazing with me, I feel totally supported by the Club and the manager pushes me every single day.

“I have improved so much as a player, and I want to thank Pep and all the backroom staff for their help. They are completely committed to helping me become the best player I can be, and I appreciate their hard work.

“We have been very successful since I came here, which is something that makes me very proud. But to be honest, that success has made me even more hungry for me. Once you start winning big titles, you don’t want to stop.

“City, I feel, offers me the best chance of winning trophies and that’s why I am so pleased to be staying here for longer.”

Club director of Football Txiki Begiristain added: “Rodri has been exceptional since coming here, so I am delighted we have managed to agree this new deal.

“He is the perfect example of what a top professional should be: he has a fantastic attitude, lives his life in the right way, takes care of his body and trains hard every single day. That is a manager’s dream, and I know Pep loves working with him.”

An important piece of business for Guardiola and City

Given that Rodri’s profile is not especially common on the transfer market these days, especially for a youngster, it makes his extension all the more important. To go with, Rodri’s presence will mean City might not worry much about Fernandinho’s departure, with an able deputy boasting potential to be better than the Brazilian already in their ranks.