Rodri Hernandez reacts to Real Madrid transfer speculation

Manchester City midfielder Rodri Hernandez has brushed aside mounting speculation linking him with a summer move to Real Madrid, insisting his sole focus is on helping the Premier League champions overturn a 3-0 deficit when the sides meet again at the Etihad Stadium.

Speaking to Cadena SER and carried by Diario AS, the Spain international admitted frustration after last week’s heavy first-leg loss at the Bernabéu but believes City remain capable of producing a memorable comeback.

“A little frustrated (with the result), but it’s been the tone of this season,” Rodri said. “It’s costing us in that final third. That quality to score the last goal. Maybe it’s penalising us a lot, but in football the most important thing is to put the ball in the net.”

City dominated stretches of the opening encounter yet failed to convert their chances, a theme the 28-year-old says must change quickly.

“We have to be more accurate and take a step forward in that sense. I think we have the rest: the game, the ability to generate… It’s true that we couldn’t score the other day, but we have to lift the team, because on Tuesday we have an important game. Above all, we have to make sure that the team creates chances.”

Questions inevitably turned to persistent reports that Real Madrid view Rodri as a prime midfield target once the season ends. The player, who is under contract at the Etihad until 2027, offered little encouragement to the Spanish giants.

“I’m not going to answer that. It’s a moment to think about what we have now, with my team, in my season, and then we’ll see.”

Rodri’s campaign has been defined as much by rehabilitation as by competition. He ruptured an anterior cruciate ligament against Arsenal in September 2024 and only recently returned to full training. While City’s form has dipped during his absence, the midfielder says he is edging back to peak condition.

“The truth is that I feel very good. Very, very happy. Obviously on an individual level, not because of the team’s situation, but yes, happy, feeling better and better. Step by step.”

With Pep Guardiola’s side needing at least three goals without reply to force extra-time against the record 14-time European champions, Rodri’s composure and experience could prove pivotal. Tuesday’s return leg now carries added narrative: a potential farewell audition for the Spaniard—or the platform for a statement performance that keeps City’s continental dream alive.