Man City manager Maresca tight-lipped on Rodri's future amid transfer speculation
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca remained non-committal about midfielder Rodri's future amid transfer speculation.
- Maresca stated that "anything can happen" before the transfer window closes and confirmed Rodri is fit to train after back surgery.
- The manager emphasized his focus is on the upcoming Community Shield match against Arsenal, not transfer dealings.
Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has adopted a cautious stance regarding the future of key midfielder Rodri, who is reportedly linked with moves to Barcelona and Real Madrid. Maresca acknowledged the ongoing transfer window dynamics, stating that "anything can happen" before it shuts.
First of all, we already said the transfer window is open, we can buy and sell players, anything can happen.
Speculation intensified after a photo of Rodri on a budget airline flight from Madrid to Liverpool went viral on social media. Despite this, Real Madrid is understood to have cooled their interest due to the significant financial commitment required for the transfer. Maresca confirmed he had seen Rodri in the building and that the player looked "good," adding, "so we'll see what happens."
Iโve just seen Rodri now in the building, I gave him a big hug, he looks good, so weโll see what happens.
The Spanish international is fit to return to training after undergoing back surgery at the end of July. Maresca also briefly addressed reports about Chelsea's deadline for bids on Enzo Fernandez, stating that City would not be making any new signings on Friday.
For sure there are things we need to do. For now, how many, I donโt know. It can be one, it can be two (players),
While Rodri's potential departure has dominated headlines, Maresca stressed that his immediate priority is preparing for the Community Shield clash against Arsenal. He indicated that the club might make one or two more signings, depending on player departures, but his focus remains on the upcoming final. Maresca dismissed the notion that the Community Shield is a mere friendly, asserting that City is determined to start the season by winning silverware.
Now in this moment, 48 hours before a final, my first in this club, my focus is not about players leaving or arriving, itโs just how we can prepare the best way in the game and try to win the final.
Originally published by Al Jazeera in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.