In a revelation that has sent the football world into frenzy, Manchester City’s midfield general Rodri has openly admitted that he tried to convince his £100m-rated international teammate to join him at the Etihad. However, despite his efforts, the star has chosen to commit his future to Manchester United, in what is shaping up to be one of the most dramatic January transfer stories in recent memory.

Rodri’s words were blunt, honest, and laced with disappointment:

“I did everything I could to bring him to City, but he told me his mind was already made up to join Manchester United. Honestly, I feel sorry for his career because he’ll never win the Ballon d’Or at United.”

His comments have sparked intense debate across the football community. Is the midfielder right to question his teammate’s decision, or could United finally be turning the corner under Ruben Amorim, ready to match City’s success?

A Record-Breaking Move in the Making

The deal, reportedly worth £100 million, would make this player one of the most expensive signings in Manchester United’s storied history. While the name of the star has not been officially disclosed, speculation is rife among fans and pundits. Clues point to a creative midfielder or versatile attacker — someone capable of reshaping United’s attack and instantly becoming a marquee figure at Old Trafford.

United have been desperate for a statement signing, not only to strengthen their squad but also to reassert themselves as a powerhouse capable of competing at the very top. Following a series of underwhelming campaigns, the acquisition of a world-class international star could serve as the catalyst for their revival.

Why United and Not City?

From a sporting perspective, choosing United over City seems like a gamble. City, under Pep Guardiola, remain the benchmark in European football. With a squad brimming with world-class talent and a proven winning mentality, City are perennial contenders for the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups.

In contrast, United are still in a rebuilding phase. Though Ruben Amorim has injected a clear tactical identity and brought back some optimism, they remain far from the finished article. Choosing Old Trafford over the Etihad is a statement of intent — one that suggests the player values the challenge of restoring a fallen giant more than joining a ready-made superpower.

Rodri, however, clearly views it differently. From his perspective, rejecting City’s offer may mean rejecting the chance to consistently compete for the highest honours. His reference to the Ballon d’Or only adds weight to this argument.

The Ballon d’Or Factor

Rodri’s comments about the Ballon d’Or were cutting: “He’ll never win the Ballon d’Or at United.” For some, this may sound harsh, but it also reflects the reality of recent history. Over the past decade, the Ballon d’Or has been dominated by players from clubs consistently winning titles and competing deep in the Champions League.

While United have enjoyed legendary winners in the past — most notably Cristiano Ronaldo in 2008 — their recent decline has left them far from the conversation. By contrast, City have been in the limelight of every major competition, with players like Kevin De Bruyne and Erling Haaland frequently tipped as potential Ballon d’Or winners.

For this £100m star, the move to United represents both risk and opportunity: risk of being sidelined from the biggest awards, but opportunity to etch his name into the club’s history by leading a genuine resurgence.

Fan Reactions

The football community has reacted explosively to the news. United fans have greeted the rumours with unbridled excitement, seeing the signing as proof that their club is finally attracting elite players again. Social media has been flooded with celebratory posts, with many already predicting the new signing could be the missing piece in Amorim’s system.

City fans, however, feel betrayed. Rodri’s revelation suggests that their club did everything possible to secure the deal, only for the player to reject them outright. For many, this decision is baffling, considering the trophy-laden environment City can offer compared to United’s current struggles.

The Impact on Manchester United

If completed, the £100m signing will mark a new era at Old Trafford. It will be a clear signal that the club’s hierarchy, led by CEO Omar Berrada, is serious about restoring United’s dominance. Amorim’s project will gain not only a world-class talent but also momentum, as players of this calibre are magnets for other top-level stars.

Moreover, United’s push for a top-four finish this season could be significantly boosted. A dynamic attacker or midfielder of international pedigree could provide the creative spark they desperately need, especially in tight games where they’ve struggled to break down stubborn defences.

The Blow to Manchester City

For City, missing out on such a player is a rare setback in the transfer market. Normally, when City set their sights on a target, they get their man. Rodri’s frustration is understandable: not only has City lost a valuable addition, but their fiercest rivals have gained one.

The psychological impact cannot be ignored. United fans will relish the chance to remind their noisy neighbours that, for once, a star player preferred the red side of Manchester.

Looking Ahead

The January transfer window promises to be one of the most dramatic in years. A £100m move of this magnitude will dominate headlines, spark debates, and set the tone for the rest of the season.

For the player himself, it’s a bold decision — one that will either elevate him into United folklore or leave him regretting the path not taken. For Rodri, the frustration is evident, and his words may serve as motivation for both his teammate and Manchester United to prove him wrong.

Conclusion

Rodri’s candid admission has peeled back the curtain on a transfer saga that could reshape English football. His comments about the Ballon d’Or sting, but they highlight the immense pressure and expectations that come with a move of this scale.

United’s pursuit of their £100m target is not just about adding talent — it’s about making a statement. A statement that they are still one of football’s true giants, capable of attracting world-class players even against the lure of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City.