The future of Manchester City midfielder Rodri remains unresolved beyond his current deal, according to his father, despite the Spain international being “very comfortable” at the Premier League champions.

Rodri, widely regarded as one of the best holding midfielders in world football, is under contract at City until 2027 but has yet to agree an extension. His situation has fuelled speculation in Spain that Real Madrid are monitoring developments, with the European champions long seen as potential suitors.

Speaking in Madrid while collecting a national award on his son’s behalf, Antonio Hernández struck a cautious tone when pressed on what comes next for the City star.

“If I said something I would have to kill you. I can’t say anything,” he told reporters, half-joking but clearly keen not to inflame the situation. “He’s very comfortable where he is. It’s possible he doesn’t know yet where he will play. He is negotiating. But I know nothing. History has yet to be written.”

Rodri joined City from Atlético Madrid in 2019 and has since become the tactical fulcrum of Pep Guardiola’s side, winning 11 major trophies, including four Premier League titles and the club’s first Champions League. His performances have placed him firmly among the elite, with individual honours and Ballon d’Or recognition reinforcing his status.

However, his father acknowledged that the last year has tested him physically and mentally. Rodri suffered a serious cruciate ligament injury and, although he has returned to make a series of league appearances, lingering muscular issues have complicated his bid to rediscover peak form ahead of the next World Cup.

“It’s been tough because for a Ballon d’Or winner, suddenly stopping, then having to readjust yourself a year later and saying ‘I want to be the same again’ is difficult,” Hernández said. “This year has been very tough, but he has recovered well from not playing for a year. There’s always some muscle issue. But he’s incredibly eager to go to the World Cup.”

Hernández added that the family’s belief in Rodri’s resilience is unwavering. “He’s training really well, and you only have to look at him to see it. He came back and in his first match he was almost the same Rodri he used to be. Now we’re asking him to manage his efforts a bit to get back into form and be ready for the World Cup.”