Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has poured fresh fuel on the fire regarding a potential blockbuster move for Rodrygo, revealing exactly what he told the Real Madrid star following their dramatic Champions League encounter at the Bernabeu.
City claimed a vital 2-1 victory in the Spanish capital on Wednesday night, with goals from breakout star Nico O'Reilly and Erling Haaland cancelling out Rodrygo's opener. But it was the scenes after the final whistle that have dominated the headlines, as cameras caught Guardiola in a lengthy, animated embrace with the Brazilian winger.
Speaking to the media after the game, the City boss did little to quell the rumours linking Rodrygo with a switch to the Etihad, offering a glowing assessment of the 24-year-old.
"He is on Another Level"
When pressed on the nature of their conversation, Guardiola was unusually candid. "I told Rodrygo how good he is," the Catalan coach revealed. "He is a player from another level. This kid is on another level. I am glad he is back from injury and scoring again. He is very, very good."
The timing of the praise is significant. Reports suggest that Rodrygo has become City’s primary attacking target for 2026. The Brazilian has endured a difficult campaign under Xabi Alonso, often finding himself benched in favour of Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. His goal against City—a crisp finish that ended a 32-game drought—was a reminder of the quality that has been largely dormant this season.
A "Dream" Target for City
It is an open secret that Manchester City have long admired Rodrygo. With Jack Grealish departing in the summer and doubts persisting over the long-term future of Bernardo Silva, City are in the market for a versatile, elite forward who can operate across the frontline. Rodrygo fits the Guardiola mould perfectly: technically secure, tactically intelligent, and possessing the "pausa" that the City boss craves.
The player's situation at Real Madrid is becoming increasingly untenable. despite publicly backing Alonso, sources close to the player indicate he is frustrated by his diminished role. With Madrid struggling for form and Alonso fighting to save his job, the Spanish giants may be forced to cash in to fund their own rebuild.
The £85m Question
Financial insiders believe a bid in the region of £85 million could be enough to bring Real Madrid to the table. While the Spanish champions are historically reluctant to sell key assets, the overcrowding in their attack has created a unique opportunity for City.
Guardiola’s personal intervention—making a beeline for the player immediately after a high-stakes match—will be interpreted by many as a clear recruitment pitch. The City manager has a history of charming targets personally, and his public declaration of love for Rodrygo’s game sends a clear message to the City board: get this deal done.
What Happens Next?
Real Madrid face a crucial run of fixtures that could determine Xabi Alonso’s fate. If Rodrygo returns to the bench this weekend, the noise surrounding a January or summer exit will become deafening. Manchester City are watching closely, and judging by Guardiola’s post-match grin, he believes the door is now wide open.