The Spaniard developed into one of the finest midfielders of his generation during his seven years in Manchester, winning 14 major trophies and clocking up 298 appearances as well as 28 goals.
He scored the goal that secured our historic maiden Champions League triumph on an unforgettable night in Istanbul in 2023 as well as other vital efforts against Aston Villa and West Ham at the Etihad which helped ensure 2022 and 2024 Premier League title success.
Add to that his prestigious Ballon d’Or triumph as well as winning the European Championships and World Cup while a Blue and the sensational story of Rodri is there for all to see.
Reflecting on his career in Manchester in a special departure interview ahead of a move to Barcelona, Rodri was quick to highlight the progress and growth he’d made during an unforgettable time in his career.
“Man City for me has been a big part of my career of course in terms of football,” he said.
“It has been the city that has grown me up as a player and person. I came as a kid and I’m going as a real man in that sense.
“In terms of football of course, what I’ve experienced and lived, I’ll always be glad to Khaldoon [Al Mubarak, Chairman] and all the club that decided to buy me in that moment.
“All the players that I’ve played with and the big moments we’ve had together.
“Without this structure and team, I wouldn’t grow in the way I grew.
“For me, City is everything. When I was getting to the CFA the other day and I was smelling the environment of the city, it’s something you cannot describe. It’s something I will remember forever.”
As Rodri now gets set for a new chapter in Spain with Barcelona, he admitted he leaves with mixed emotions – pride at what he’s achieved, of course, but also sadness at having to say goodbye to a place and people he holds so dear.
“It’s a mixture of feelings,” he added.
“I feel pleased right now and happy because it’s the end of a fantastic journey for me but I’ve been incredibly happy, me and my family.
“I’m proud of what I’ve done with all my team-mates in these years and of course, really sad leaving probably the place I’ve in my life where I’ve been most happy and most successful.
“I’ve felt the love of all the people. It’s time to say goodbye in the best way and words are difficult right now to describe feelings.”
Watch the full interview in the video player above.
