Rodri has finalized his choice of shirt number at Barcelona, requesting the No. 16 jersey during recent conversations with Fermín López—a clear indication of his commitment to the number that has defined his professional career.
The Spanish midfielder is set to sign a long-term contract with Barcelona through 2030 after greenlighting his return to La Liga, with only official administrative procedures remaining before the transfer is formally announced.
The No. 16 shirt holds deep sentimental and career value for Rodri. He wore it during his breakout spell at Villarreal before making it his iconic digit at Manchester City and with the Spanish national team. The only departure from this trend was during his single season at Atletico Madrid, where he wore No. 14.
To accommodate the high-profile arrival, Fermín López will switch to the No. 7 shirt, which became vacant following Ferran Torres’ departure, clearing the path for Rodri to claim his favored No. 16 at Camp Nou.
The squad number resolution comes right ahead of the official unveiling, with Barcelona and Manchester City having agreed on a transfer package worth €65 million upfront plus €10 million in performance-based add-ons.
Rodri’s arrival provides Barcelona with a world-class anchor in midfield, bringing a player who redefined the position wearing No. 16 at Manchester City while winning major honors, including the UEFA Champions League and multiple Premier League titles.
