Barcelona officially announced the signing of Rodri. Subsequently, Manchester City released a farewell video for Rodri on various social media platforms.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona is well aware of the time constraints and does not intend to wait until the transfer window is about to close to finalize the Argentine forward. During Rodri's Barcelona unveiling press conference, reporters also inquired about Alvarez.

Rodri appeared quite cautious: "I am always very careful when talking about players from other clubs; I have great respect for Atletico Madrid. Julian is an extremely talented player and one of the top forwards in football today; that's all I can say. Of course, Deco and the club's management are always looking for ways to further strengthen the team's squad."

Interestingly, Julian and Rodri's career trajectories are exactly opposite: Rodri transferred from Atletico Madrid to Manchester City, while Julian moved from the Etihad Stadium to the Metropolitano Stadium. Between 2022 and 2024, the two played side-by-side for Manchester City for two seasons, participating in 90 matches together and winning multiple honors, including 1 Champions League, 2 Premier League titles, 1 UEFA Super Cup, 1 FIFA Club World Cup, 1 FA Cup, and 1 Community Shield.

It is reported that Barcelona has not yet given up on their efforts to sign Alvarez, seeing him as a key piece for Deco to reshape the squad and challenge for the Champions League. However, Barcelona has also set a clear deadline: if Atletico Madrid still does not agree to release the player within the next two to three days, Barcelona's sports management will activate alternative plans. But before the deadline, Alvarez remains Barcelona's top target to reinforce the number 9 position.

AF's PC site is now live! Browse full news, comments, match details and stats on your computer. Visit: www.allfootballapp.com