BARCELONA — Rodrigo Hernández Cascante, known as Rodri, was formally presented by Barcelona on Thursday, a day after ending his seven-year Manchester City career. The transfer ranks among the summer's biggest moves in European football.

Rodri, 30, joined City from Atlético Madrid in 2019 and became one of the world's most decorated defensive midfielders. He won the 2024 Ballon d'Or and anchored City's midfield through multiple Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League triumph.

Barcelona pursued the midfielder as manager Hansi Flick sought greater control in the centre of the pitch ahead of the 2026-27 La Liga campaign. Barcelona confirmed the deal on Wednesday and completed the presentation following medical formalities. The transfer fee and contract length were disclosed at the unveiling.

The departure represents a significant loss for Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, who had built much of his tactical structure around Rodri. City will now pursue reinforcements in the transfer market before the new Premier League season begins.

Rodri's arrival strengthens Barcelona's pursuit of domestic and European honours, adding experience and a proven winner to Flick's project at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.