Manchester City supporters have expressed huge concerns after hearing Rodri's recent remarks about Real Madrid.
The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner's importance to City cannot be overstated after Pep Guardiola's side lost four consecutive games in a row and fell five points behind Liverpool in the Premier League title race.
Rodri suffered an ACL injury against Arsenal in September and looks set to miss the entirety of the season, with City struggling to fill the huge void he has left in midfield.
But the Spaniard has added to City fans' worries after calling Real Madrid's reported interest "an honour." Prior to his stint in England, Rodri came through the ranks at Villarreal and spent a season with Real's rivals Atletico in La Liga.
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He went up against Real star Vinicius Jr for the Ballon d'Or, and the club decided to boycott the ceremony after learning that their man would not be claiming the prize.
But despite the Real fury surrounding his win, Rodri still acknowledges the interest from Los Blancos who he called "the best and most successful club in history".
Speaking to Cadena Ser radio in Spain, Rodri said: "Obviously when Madrid, the best and most successful club in history, calls you, it is an honour. You always have to pay attention."
More encouragingly for City fans, Rodri did not rule out the possibility of finishing playing in England, where he has won a record-breaking four Premier League titles in a row
"I don't look too far ahead but it's a possibility that I could perfectly end my career in England," he added.
"It's a country that has given me everything, I have fallen in love with football there. The club is spectacular, not just from a sporting level but how it's structured. I feel comfortable and loved there. But Spain is my country. I am always aware of the league, the level of the teams is growing more and more. I've been lucky to play in both leagues, to have the best coaches in the world and I feel very satisfied."
City have been boosted by the huge news that Guardiola has committed his future to the club by penning a new two-year contract extension, which Rodri deems to be an "important incentive" for him to remain at the Etihad Stadium.
His new deal will take him to over a decade of service to City.
Rodri, meanwhile, still harbours hopes of playing again this season - particularly with the campaign extended for the revamped Club World Cup tournament in the United States.
Asked if he could return before the end of the season, Rodri replied: "Yes. From a mental standpoint, my aim is to play this season. Each year, the seasons are longer. I don't know how much I will be able to contribute but having the Nations League and the Club World Cup in June and July, I think I will be able to do so."
City look to end a wretched run of four straight losses with a visit of Spurs on Saturday. Rodri is set to parade his Ballon d'Or award around the stadium before kick-off.
Topics: Manchester City, Real Madrid, Rodri, Pep Guardiola
Josh Lawless