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Rodri is pushing to speed up his exit from Manchester City after asking for an exemption from training. The Spain international is keen to complete a return to La Liga, with talks between the Etihad club and Barcelona now reaching a decisive stage.

Rodri seeks training exemption amid Barcelona interest

The uncertainty over Rodri’s future has taken a major twist, with the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner trying to manage his departure from the Etihad Stadium. Although his holiday period officially ended on Thursday, the midfielder has asked for special permission not to report to Manchester City’s training base on Friday morning, according to SPORT. The move is similar to the situation involving Ferran Torres, who was given comparable flexibility by Barcelona when his €50 million transfer to Paris Saint-Germain was close to being completed.

Even though the player is fully determined to move to Spotify Camp Nou, he wants the matter to be handled professionally. He is aware that missing training could be interpreted as an act of defiance, and he has made it clear that he will only stay away if he receives approval from his current club.

Barcelona see second bid turned down

Despite the player’s position, City are remaining firm in negotiations. The Premier League side have already resisted multiple attempts from the Catalan club. Most recently, the Blaugrana had an improved offer of around €60 million rejected by the City hierarchy, who are unwilling to reduce their valuation even though Rodri has entered the final year of his contract.

New City manager Enzo Maresca has publicly insisted that he still expects the midfielder to return despite the growing speculation. Speaking after a pre-season match in Seoul, the Italian coach was clear about the timeline. "Yes, at the moment he will be in Manchester. There is no update. On August 14 he will be back," Maresca told reporters.

Flick intervention and Real Madrid rejection

The momentum behind the transfer has been driven by direct conversations between Rodri and Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick. The German manager is said to have contacted the Spaniard to explain his tactical plans, convincing the midfielder that he would be a central figure in the revamped Barcelona midfield.

"Out of respect for Madrid, as they have been class, Rodri informed them that his decision is to join Barca," Rodri’s agent said during an interview. That straightforward communication has helped preserve a respectful relationship between all parties, while also making it absolutely clear where the player wants to go.

Final hurdles in the saga

Although the player’s intentions are obvious, the transfer still depends on both clubs reaching an agreement. City are reportedly already assessing replacements, with Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez named as a possible option, although the significant cost involved in signing the Argentine makes Rodri’s possible exit even more delicate. City have long followed a policy of not forcing unhappy players to stay, but they are also not known for allowing top performers to leave for below market value.

For Barcelona, the need is pressing. With Frenkie de Jong’s fitness still a serious issue and the new season drawing near, bringing in a world-class midfielder is the main objective for Deco and the board. The club is ready to make a major push over the coming days to get the transfer over the line.