Manchester City midfielder Rodri's future is in doubt, with manager Enzo Maresca offering no assurances about his stay at the club.
The Italian manager welcomed Rodri back to the team on Friday, but stopped short of guaranteeing his continued presence. Rodri had been on an extended break after helping Spain win the World Cup last month and undergoing minor back surgery.
The transfer window is open, Maresca said, and anything can happen. This has sparked speculation about a possible move for Rodri, with Barcelona reportedly interested in signing him.
Rodri will not be playing in Sunday's Community Shield against Arsenal as he follows a rehabilitation program after surgery. The Community Shield is the curtain-raiser to the English soccer season between the winners of last season's Premier League and FA Cup.
Manchester City's midfield is set to undergo significant changes, with stalwart Bernardo Silva having left for Real Madrid. The club is also facing a possible departure of Rodri, who has been a key player for the team.
Maresca was more open about the departure of Tijjani Reijnders, who failed to establish himself as a regular for City after joining from AC Milan in last year's offseason. Reports in the British media say the Netherlands midfielder is on his way to Saudi Arabian club Al-Qadsiah.
The transfer of Reijnders is not done officially, Maresca said, and it will be confirmed in the next hours. The manager compared Reijnders' situation to that of goalkeeper James Trafford, who joined Leeds this summer to get more playing opportunities.
Reijnders was "already convinced" about leaving City, Maresca said. The manager acknowledged that the situation was normal, given that some players want to play a little bit more after one season.
Maresca's comments have sparked debate about the future of Rodri and the club's midfield. The Italian manager will have to decide whether to sell or keep the midfielder, who has been a key player for the team.
The situation is set to unfold in the coming hours and days.
Source: Yahoo Sports