Rodri: I heard Riquelme talk about me, but I don't know where those reports came from

Rodri was interviewed by Cadena SER and responded to remarks made by Real Madrid presidential candidate Enrique Riquelme about him. Rodri stated that he is currently focused on the World Cup, still has a contract with Manchester City, and now is not the time to consider the future or make decisions.

Host: You have always been very frank and never shy away from questions, as usual, willing to talk about any topic. I remember the last time I interviewed you, we asked if Real Madrid were to invite you one day, and you said at the time, of course, anyone would be happy if a big club like Real Madrid came looking for a player.

What was your reaction when you heard Enrique Riquelme's words later? Let's review first. He was a Real Madrid presidential candidate and he said at the time: "Yes, of course. I really like players like Rodri, he is very suitable for Real Madrid. He has values, professionalism, and competitiveness. He has won the Golden Ball, is from Madrid, and is the captain of the Spanish national team. If I become the president of Real Madrid, players like Rodri will play for Real Madrid."

He initially kept saying "players like Rodri", and then directly said, not "players like Rodri", but "Rodri will be a Real Madrid player". What is the situation here? If you wish, you can also take this opportunity to clarify. Is there any agreement between you and Riquelme? Have you signed anything? Or made a promise?

Rodri: No. Manu, to be honest with you, I'm actually a bit out of the loop on this matter myself. There are indeed some rumors reaching me, but in the end, I'm not really sure where these rumors are coming from.

I still try to focus on what I should be doing now. However, I also understand that this is part of the industry, something we have to face in this job. We all know that sometimes your name appears in various rumors, and this situation can only be accepted.

But as I said before, I am neither considering these things nor making any decisions right now. So I can't say much. You know, I have always been a low-key person.

Yes, I know. And as far as I know, many things about you, they won't tell you, especially at this stage.

Rodri: Yes, indeed they won't. To be honest, they won't tell me. When it's really time to make a decision, or when it's time to seriously consider these things, then I'll look and analyze. Obviously, I always make decisions after careful consideration. But now is not the time, nor is it the time to make a decision.

So let's see what happens next. Also, a reminder to Cadena SER listeners that you have one year left on your contract with Manchester City. This means you don't necessarily have to change environments now. After the World Cup, we'll see whether you return to play in Spain, or go somewhere else, or continue to stay at Manchester City – which is of course also an option, Rodri.

Rodri: That's right. My focus is currently on the World Cup, and I still have a contract with the club. I think we're having a good season, and that's my current situation.