Real Madrid News
Real Madrid priority target gives clear approval for future transfer: ‘Can’t turn down the best club’
Manchester City midfielder Rodri has sent shockwaves after openly addressing long-standing links with Real Madrid, while also offering a respectful take on Vinicius Jr.
The Ballon d’Or winner, widely regarded as one of the most complete midfielders in world football, did not shy away from the topic when speaking on Onda Cero’s Radioestadio Noche (h/t Fabrizio Romano).
Real Madrid move not ruled out
Addressing his past ties with Atletico Madrid, Rodri made it clear that such history would not prevent a move across the city if the opportunity arises.
“Having played for Atletico Madrid doesn’t stop me from playing for Real Madrid; there are other players who have gone down that path.
“Not immediately, but over time. You can’t turn down the best clubs in the world,” he said.
He went a step further by sharing his admiration for Madrid’s iconic Santiago Bernabeu stadium.
Speaking about the atmosphere, he said, “Playing at the Bernabéu is incredible. It’s a very intimidating place.”
Door not closed
While Rodri remains fully committed to Manchester City for now, his long-term ambitions appear to include a return to Spain.
When asked directly about that possibility, he admitted, “Would I like to play in Spain and in Madrid in LaLiga again? I’d like to return, yes. Obviously.”
Interestingly, the midfielder also addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding Real Madrid’s internal interest in him.
Without confirming any direct contact, he revealed how such matters are handled, explaining,
“Have I ever heard that the president and general manager of Madrid like Rodrigo Hernandez? I don’t know.
“The thing is, they don’t talk to me. They talk to my agent.”
On Vinicius Jr.
Beyond transfer talk, Rodri also addressed perceived tensions with Vinicius Jr. following the Ballon d’Or debacle.
He emphasised mutual respect, stating, “I have nothing against Vini Jr… I have maximum respect for him, for everything he did that Ballon d’Or year too”.
He further clarified the story around their supposed rivalry, adding,
“It’s other people who decide who wins the Ballon d’Or. They tried to put us against each other, but that’s not the case”.
Finally, reflecting on facing Madrid in high-stakes matches, Rodri concluded,
“It doesn’t matter if they arrive to the match in a good or bad moment. Real Madrid is always Real Madrid”.
Real Madrid youngster Endrick continues to attract interest from several clubs ahead of another potential loan move in the upcoming January transfer window.
The latest side considering a move for the Brazilian forward is Aston Villa.
Indeed, according to reports relayed by Bernabeu Digital, the Premier League club are interested in signing the Real Madrid striker on loan in January.
No minutes for Endrick
Endrick has had very limited opportunities under Jose Mourinho this season. Across Real Madrid’s nine matches in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League, the Brazilian has played just four minutes, coming on in the 86th minute against Elche.
Such limited playing time has left the young forward struggling to gain the minutes and experience needed to develop his talent at Real Madrid.
As such, another loan move, like last January when he left for Olympique Lyon, could offer him a chance to play more regularly and continue his progression.
Aston Villa, managed by Unai Emery, have now emerged as an interested party to acquire the Brazilian international’s services on loan for the second half of the season.
AC Milan also interested in Endrick
Howver, Aston Villa are not the only club monitoring Endrick’s situation. AC Milan have also renewed their interest in the Brazilian forward.
The Rossoneri already held an interest in the 20-year-old forward during the summer transfer window and are knocking on the doors once again now.
In fact, some reports in Italy even go on to suggest that the youngster is ready to pounce on the opportunity to sign for the Serie A giants.
For now, however, there have been no concrete developments or formal approaches from any interested club.
Real Madrid are understood to be open to allowing Endrick to leave on loan, but they are not considering a permanent sale as they still have a lot of faith in the promising attacker whom they signed from Palmeiras.
With Aston Villa and AC Milan both interested, the coming months could prove important in determining where the young Brazilian will continue his development.
