The world’s best footballer finally returned to training cruciate ligament injury on Wednesday. – Last year Rodri won the Ballon d’Or ahead of a furious Real Madrid star Vinicius Juniur. – It was after Manchester City that England’s second team in history won the treble.
This season, the Sky Blues were clearly weakened after Rodri was injured at the start of the season, now we could be facing one of the most surprising transfers in history.
Read: Decided on Liverpool months ago
Manchester City weakened without Rodri
Few could have predicted how much Manchester City would miss the Spanish star in midfield this season. The Ballon d’Or winner tore his cruciate ligament in a 2-2 draw with Arsenal in September, and City haven’t looked as strong since.
This season, they have seen rivals Liverpool take the league title, and they also suffered a shock defeat to Crystal Palace (1-0) in the FA Cup final.
Spectacular trade on the horizon? – Want an even bigger star in return!
According to Spanish outlet Defensa Central, City are now considering a bold move to turn things around: They have reportedly launched a shock offer to sign Jude Bellingham from Real Madrid.
But instead of a cash payment, the source claims that City are willing to trade Rodri away for the English star – which would be one of the most sensational transfers ever.
Rodri’s comeback and future
Rodri, who returned to the pitch with an eight-minute substitute in City’s 3-1 win over Bournemouth on Wednesday after an eight-month absence, is expected to be fully fit for next season.
The 28-year-old was a key player for Spain’s Euro 2024 triumph, where they beat Bellingham’s England 2-1 in the final. He has also been instrumental in City’s success in recent years, with four Premier League titles, one FA Cup and one Champions League title since arriving at the Etihad.
Read: Bruno Fernandes offered €230 million to leave and save Manchester United’s finances
Why would Madrid consider this?
Bellingham (21) is significantly younger than Rodri and has had a phenomenal start at Madrid since joining from Dortmund in 2023. He won La Liga and the Champions League in his debut season, but this time had to settle for second place behind rivals Barcelona.
Will Madrid really trade one of the world’s most promising talents for a 28-year-old, even if Rodri is an established top player? That remains to be seen – but one thing is certain: this would be a rare big swap in modern football.
