The injury nightmare is behind him. Rodri returned to the pitch at the World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico, and his outstanding display has suddenly reactivated a transfer that seemed frozen: that of Real Madrid. What just months ago was a question mark shrouded in doubts about his physical recovery is now a reality that accelerates the white club's market plans.

From the sidelines to World MVP

When Rodrigo Hernández ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament of the meniscus in his right knee in September 2024, the Madrid-Rodri operation stalled. The Manchester City midfielder spent almost the entire last season out of action, raising legitimate concerns about his physical condition and his ability to perform at the highest level once recovered.

However, the World Cup changed the equation completely. The Madrid native gained presence as the tournament progressed, becoming the undisputed backbone of a Spanish national team that won its second world championship. His performance was so remarkable that they did not hesitate to award him the tournament MVP award. That is what Madrid needed to see: proof that Rodri was back to being Rodri.

A midfield bereft of talent

At the Bernabéu they have long had an urgent need: a brain for the engine room of the team. Since Toni Kroos and Luka Modric left, Real Madrid has not found a midfielder of that calibre to direct the game from midfield. It is a gap that weighs heavily, and nobody at Valdebebas ignores it.

Rodri fits that profile like a glove. At 30 years old he is at his best, and his experience in the Premier League and with the national team back him up. The problem, until recently, was the uncertainty over his physical condition following the serious injury. The World Cup has erased that question mark in one stroke.

Moves on the chessboard

According to mundodeportivo.com, Real Madrid's technical reports point to Rodri as the best option to strengthen the midfield, also from the market value perspective. Sources consulted by the outlet speak of the merengue club's willingness to invest up to 60 million euros, with part of the amount as add-ons.

Still, nothing is closed for now. Cadena SER clarifies that so far there have been no contacts between Real Madrid and the player. In other words, Valdebebas has not yet dared to take the official step. For its part, Manchester City sources deny having received any offer from the white club.

Madrid's trump card: the expiring contract

Here lies the key to the matter. Rodri has a commitment with Manchester City until June 2027, but has not yet renewed it. The player has stated on several occasions that he would not make his decision about the future until after the World Cup, which has just ended. That opens the door.

Madrid plays with an important trump card: if he does not renew in the coming months, the situation becomes complicated for City, which could see him leave for free in a year. A silent but effective pressure that the white club knows well how to use. All signs point to movement coming soon, one way or another. The question is: will Madrid dare to formalise its interest?