Rodri has revealed the details of a private phone call with José Mourinho after turning down Real Madrid to complete a blockbuster summer transfer to Barcelona from Manchester City.
The midfielder finalized his high-profile move during the summer window, spurning interest from the Santiago Bernabéu in favor of a project spearheaded by sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick. Speaking about the decision, the Spain international admitted that saying no to Real Madrid required careful thought given the stature of the club.
The Mourinho Phone Call and Professional Courtesy
According to an interview with Mundo Deportivo, Rodri maintained close professional courtesy with the Portuguese manager throughout the recruitment process. When the decision was made to head to Camp Nou, the player personally contacted the opposing boss.
“His treatment was very good. When I made the decision, I also called him to thank him for his interest and his treatment. I think he is a fantastic coach; he has proven it wherever he has gone during his successful periods, and Real Madrid will be a tough rival in this league.”
While acknowledging the allure of working under Mourinho at Real Madrid, Rodri noted that his heart was ultimately set on the sporting direction being laid out by Deco and Flick at Barcelona. The player emphasized that rejecting such a historic institution as Real Madrid is never a simple task for any professional footballer.
Evaluating the Champions League Landscape
Beyond his personal transfer saga, Rodri offered a pragmatic assessment of his new club’s standing in Europe. Despite the excitement surrounding his arrival and the tactical overhaul under the coaching staff, the midfielder maintained that Barcelona should not be installed as the primary favorite to lift the UEFA Champions League trophy this season, pointing to the fierce competition across the continent.
The club now turns its attention to upcoming domestic fixtures as the La Liga title race intensifies. Barcelona prepares to face its next opponent in league play, where supporters and analysts will watch how the squad integrates its marquee summer acquisition into the starting lineup.
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