Jose Mourinho Explains Why Real Madrid Abandoned Rodri Pursuit Before Barcelona Transfer
Jose Mourinho has shared the real reason behind Real Madrid stepping back from signing Rodri before the midfielder's high-profile switch to Barcelona this summer. Despite losing out on the 2025 Ballon d’Or winner, the Portuguese coach shows no regret about missing the chance.
Barcelona Completes Major Signing of Rodri
The former Manchester City star officially joined Barcelona, signing a four-year deal until June 2030. The Catalan club agreed on a guaranteed €60 million fee with City, which could climb to €76.5 million after performance bonuses. Rodri had pushed for a move away from the Etihad following a successful spell there.
Initially, Real Madrid were leading the race, with agent Pablo Barquero confirming they put forward an irresistible offer. But Rodri ultimately chose to join their bitter rivals.
Mourinho Reveals Player Hesitation Cost Madrid the Transfer
Mourinho spoke to El Chiringuito about what went wrong: "I spoke to him a few times and Real Madrid made him a very good offer," he said. "We have a good relationship with City. Without negotiating through City initially, the club contacted Rodri directly and made him a big proposal. But Rodri hesitated, and his doubts became mine."
"He’s an exceptional player and was respectful throughout. There’s nothing negative to say. Yet Real Madrid is a club that can’t afford players second-guessing themselves. You reach out, and the player immediately asks when he should join—that’s how it works here. He was respectful, though. I wish him well... just not too well," Mourinho added.
No Regrets Over Missing Out on Rodri
Even though Rodri seemed like the ideal successor to legends Toni Kroos and Luka Modric in controlling midfield, Mourinho dismissed any concerns about gaps in his squad. He trusts his current players and their development over seeking replacements.
"I am not lacking Rodri," Mourinho said plainly. "We are not missing players. I’m not saying no more signings will come because the market is open, but if you ask me if it's closed, yes, it is. I really like this squad."
Mourinho’s Midfield Setup Ahead of the New Season
During pre-season, Mourinho has favored a 4-2-3-1 system with a double pivot midfield. Federico Valverde and Bernardo Silva carried most of the minutes in this role throughout the summer. With La Liga starting soon, Madrid’s midfield remains a key talking point.
Meanwhile, Rodri prepares to settle into Barcelona and aims to help his new team challenge Mourinho’s men for the Spanish title.
- Upcoming Club Friendlies:
- Barcelona vs Al Ahly SCA: 19 Aug 2026, 20:00
- La Liga Opener - Espanyol vs Real Madrid: 22 Aug 2026, 21:30
