Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has shed light on the circumstances that saw Rodri turn down a move to the Spanish capital in favor of Barcelona, revealing that the midfielder's own hesitation played a decisive role in the club's decision to step back from pursuing the deal.
Barcelona confirmed on Tuesday that they had struck an agreement to sign the World Cup-winning captain from Manchester City, with Rodri putting pen to paper on a contract running until 2030. The move brings an end to speculation over the 30-year-old's future after he spent seven seasons in the Premier League, during which time he became one of the most decorated midfielders in the world.
Speaking on Spanish television program El Chiringuito, Mourinho confirmed that Real Madrid had held discussions with Rodri about a potential switch, and that the club had gone as far as tabling a formal offer. However, the returning Portuguese boss suggested that signs of uncertainty from the player himself ultimately discouraged Madrid from pushing the deal through.
"I spoke with [Rodri] a couple of times," Mourinho said. "Real Madrid made him a very good offer. I think the relationship between Real Madrid and City is very good. The club made him an important offer. Rodri had doubts, he doubted, and I think what happened is that the doubts Rodri had, gave me doubts."
Mourinho went on to stress that any hint of indecision was incompatible with the demands of representing a club of Real Madrid's stature, effectively explaining why the Spanish giants chose not to press further once reservations emerged from the player's side.
"He's an extraordinary player," Mourinho added. "But I think Real Madrid are so big that we can't have players who think twice. That's the concept. But he behaved properly with us, and I wish him well."
The episode opened the door for Barcelona to swoop in and secure the signature of one of the most sought-after midfielders in world football. Rodri's arrival at Camp Nou represents a major coup for the Catalan club, who have added a player widely regarded as among the best in his position following his heroics for both Manchester City and the Spanish national team.
Rodri's stock has continued to rise following Spain's triumphant World Cup campaign, where his performances as captain played a central role in the team's success. He is currently considered one of the frontrunners to claim the Ballon d'Or for a second time in his career, a testament to his growing influence on both the domestic and international stage.
With the transfer saga now resolved, attention turns to how both Madrid clubs will fare as the new La Liga season gets underway. Real Madrid, under Mourinho's renewed stewardship, begin their campaign away to Espanyol on Saturday, looking to build early momentum without the Spanish international they had once hoped to add to their ranks.
Barcelona, meanwhile, will kick off their title defense with a trip to Elche, eager to integrate their prized new signing as quickly as possible. Rodri's move represents a significant shift in the balance of power among Spain's elite clubs, and his performances in Catalan colors will be closely watched throughout the coming season as he adapts to yet another chapter in an already storied career.
Based on reporting from Independent Football.