How aggressive Real Madrid will be in rebuilding their midfield this summer could depend a lot on the success they achieve in the remaining weeks of the season.
Seven points behind in the La Liga title race, embarrassed in the Copa del Rey and defeated in the Spanish Super Cup, there is a real possibility that Madrid will end the 2025–26 season without a single trophy – an unacceptable scenario for president Florentino Perez.
However, the Champions League remains the big target and Manchester City’s elimination in the round of 16 showed once again that Real Madrid can never be underestimated in the knockout stages.
Regardless of how the European adventure ends, the midfield needs a refresh. The club must find adequate replacements for the two pillars that left in recent summers: Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić.
In this regard, two names have emerged: Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez and Manchester City’s Rodri.
Who is the ideal choice?
Real Madrid’s transfer policy has historically not always been based on tactical needs, but rather on the prestige of the players. Although the era of the “Galacticos” is over, the club still targets big names and then adapts their roles in the squad.
However, the departures of Kroos and Modrić have left a huge void. Real Madrid have struggled to control matches and calm the game at critical moments – something these two legends did perfectly.
Enzo Fernandez
The Argentine has distinguished himself in the Premier League as a midfielder who often penetrates the area and contributes to the attack. He has vision and very good long passes, but needs support in the defensive aspect and is not physically dominant.
In short, he is a creative player, but not fully equipped for the role that Real Madrid needs.
Rodri
On the other hand, Rodri is considered the most complete midfielder. He is a Ballon d’Or winner and dominates the center of the field with composure, intelligence and physical strength.
He is not as spectacular in passing as Fernandez, but he is extremely efficient in controlling the pace and distributing the ball – exactly what Real Madrid currently lacks.
Rodri can transform the team from a team that relies on individual moments to one that dominates matches against the best in Europe.
Price and feasibility
Rodri is the cheapest and most accessible option. With just one year left on his contract, Manchester City could allow him to leave if the player wants to return to Madrid.
Fernandez, on the other hand, is under contract until 2032 and Chelsea have no intention of selling him. Any offer for him would have to exceed the club’s record fee of over $130 million.
Lifespan and risk
Rodri (29) is recovering from a serious knee injury, which raises some questions about his long-term future. However, he is expected to have several more years at the top level.
Fernandez is four years younger and less prone to injury, but doesn’t offer the same immediate impact on the structure of the game.
If Real Madrid are looking for an immediate and surefire solution to regain control of midfield, Rodri is the ideal choice.
Fernandez remains a great talent and could fit well into the long-term project, but considering the price, the difficulty of the transfer and the player’s profile, he is not the most practical option.
In short: Rodri is what Real Madrid is missing – and perhaps the perfect summer signing.
