Rodri Transfer Rumors Continue as Maresca Says Anything Can Happen

Manchester City's new boss Enzo Maresca has not spilled a single detail about Rodri's future while rumors swirl that the Spanish midfielder could be heading to Barcelona or Real Madrid. He told reporters ahead of Sunday's Community Shield clash with Arsenal in Cardiff that "anything can happen" before the transfer window snaps shut. This silence follows a viral image from Thursday morning showing Rodri boarding a budget Ryanair flight out of Madrid for Liverpool. The photo captured him with a small suitcase labeled with his name, national team flag, and squad number.

Real Madrid appears to have cooled off on the idea despite being record La Liga winners. Financial hurdles seem to be the main reason they backed away from the deal. Maresca addressed the transfer window opening on Friday, stating clearly that buying and selling players is possible and nothing is set in stone yet. He noted he had just seen Rodri inside the building, gave him a big hug, and found him looking good. The manager also confirmed the World Cup winner has recovered from back surgery at the end of July and is ready for training again.

When asked if Chelsea's Friday deadline for bids on Enzo Fernandez meant City would act quickly, Maresca smiled and said no new signings are happening on Friday. While headlines obsess over Rodri potentially leaving a club where he was a cornerstone, Maresca kept his eyes on Sunday. He admitted there are things to do regarding the squad but refused to speculate on exact numbers. It could be one player or two, depending on who leaves and who arrives. With only 48 hours left before the final in Cardiff, which marks his first match as manager since Pep Guardiola departed last season, Maresca said his focus is entirely on preparation and winning the game.

He pushed back hard against anyone calling the Community Shield a glorified friendly. For him personally, it is a trophy. If the trophy exists, the final exists, and you always try to win. There is no friendly here at all. He insists City wants to start the season by picking up silverware.