Enzo Maresca's priority as Manchester City's new manager is to convince Rodri to sign a new contract, with the Spanish midfielder's current deal running until next June and Real Madrid reportedly circling. Maresca, who previously worked under Pep Guardiola at City including during the 2022-23 treble season, faces the challenge of succeeding a hugely decorated predecessor, and retaining Rodri is seen as central to avoiding the fate of managers who have struggled to follow legendary bosses at other clubs.

Rodri, 30, has just captained Spain to World Cup glory and won the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, having previously starred in City's 2023 treble and Euro 2024 success with Spain. He underwent surgery for a minor back injury on Monday but still wants to explore a move to Spain, and Real Madrid's president, Florentino Pérez, is now said to be more open to a deal, partly due to new head coach José Mourinho's interest. City insist they have no wish to sell and hope he will accept improved terms, while they have already spent £116m on midfielder Elliot Anderson and may pursue Lille's Ayyoub Bouaddi for around £85m.