Pep Guardiola will not stand in Rodri’s way if the midfielder wishes to leave Manchester City for Real Madrid, though the manager believes he will stay at the club beyond this summer.

During the international break Rodri, whose contract expires in June 2027, was asked about reports that Real’s president, Florentino Pérez, wished to sign him. When answering, the 29-year-old referenced how being a former Atlético Madrid player would be no obstacle.

“There are other players who’ve taken that path,” he said. “Not directly, but over time. For me, you can’t turn down the best clubs in the world.”

Reminded of his stance that no footballer would ever be prevented from leaving City should they wish to, Guardiola said this would apply to Rodri. “Absolutely. The organisation of the club is above all of us – if one player is not happy, they have to leave.

“Continue the same here if they are happy, and I think he is happy. If he is not happy just knock on the door of the sporting director, accept an offer according to his incredible quality, and after that he doesn’t belong to...