Atletico Madrid and Villarreal to Gain Millions as Barcelona Nears Signing of Rodri from Manchester City
Atletico Madrid and Villarreal stand to receive substantial payments due to FIFA's solidarity mechanism after the midfielder Rodri moves from Manchester City to Barcelona in a deal worth €75 million.
Barcelona and Manchester City Agree on Rodri Transfer
Barcelona and Manchester City have reached an agreement for the transfer of Spain international Rodri, aged 30. The deal reportedly includes a fixed fee of €65 million (£55m), with potential performance-based add-ons adding up to €10 million (£8.5m).
This transfer will not only benefit City but also previous clubs where Rodri trained, thanks to FIFA’s solidarity rules.
FIFA Solidarity Mechanism Benefits Atletico Madrid
The FIFA solidarity mechanism requires 5% of the transfer fee to be distributed among the clubs involved in a player's training between ages 12 and 23. Rodri spent seven years developing in Atletico Madrid's academy before leaving at 17.
- Atletico Madrid payout: At least €1.6 million (£1.3m) from the initial fee, potentially rising to around €2 million (£1.7m) if all conditions are met.
- Rayo Majadahonda: Rodri's first youth club; receives no payment since he left before age 12.
Villarreal Also Receives Solidarity Payment
Villarreal will claim a portion of the solidarity money as well, having had Rodri for five crucial seasons—two in their youth teams and three with the first team. Rodri moved from Villarreal back to Atletico in 2018, then on to Manchester City a year later.
His return to Spain with Barcelona means Villarreal is expecting a welcome financial boost.
Official Announcement Pending
Details of Rodri's transfer to Barcelona are being finalized, with an official announcement anticipated soon. Barcelona coach Hansi Flick plans to bring the experienced midfielder into the squad for upcoming domestic and European challenges.
Meanwhile, both Atletico Madrid and Villarreal await their solidarity payments, which will help them wrap up their summer transfer dealings before the window closes.
