Manchester City today confirmed the club record signing of defensive midfielder Rodri from Atletico Madrid on a five-year deal.
It emerged yesterday from Madrid that Rodri’s buy-out clause of £62.8m had been paid and the midfielder will become City’s record signing.
Rodri, 23, will become City’s second signing of the summer after the arrival of Angelino and will wear the number 16 shirt which was previously worn by Sergio Aguero.
Rodri, a Spanish international, scored three times in 47 appearances for Atletico Madrid last season, where he lifted the 2018 UEFA Super Cup and helped the club finish second in La Liga behind Barcelona.
City had been following the player for some time but there was only one destination for Rodri once he learned of their interest in him.
With excellent English, Rodrigo explained: “It’s a dream for me to come here. City are a great team and I have lots of things to learn.
“I saw Manchester City on TV, and knew one day I would play there. There were no more options once I noticed that City were interested in me.
“What City have achieved in the last two years has been amazing and I’m looking forward to being part of such a talented squad.
“It’s not just the titles they have won, but the way they have managed it, playing attacking football at all times.
“It’s a style that excites me, as do the Club’s ambitions.
“I can’t wait to start working with Pep Guardiola and my new team-mates and hopefully we can achieve great things together.
“Manchester is becoming more Blue and City are a great team with top players all over the pitch. I think Pep is the greatest coach in the world and that’s what has brought me here.”
Txiki Begiristain, City’s Director of Football added: “Rodri has proven himself to be a hugely talented, young midfielder, who has all the attributes we are looking for.
“He works hard defensively, makes himself available to receive the ball and uses it well when in possession.
“He is a perfect fit for Pep Guardiola’s team and we are confident he will be a success.”