Jose Mourinho Explains Why Real Madrid Withdrew from Signing Rodri Before His Move to Barcelona
Jose Mourinho has shared the reason behind Real Madrid's decision to halt their pursuit of Rodri before the midfielder finalized his high-profile transfer to Barcelona. The 2025 Ballon d'Or winner joined Barcelona this summer, but Mourinho insists he holds no regrets about missing out.
Rodri's Big Move to Barcelona
Rodri officially completed his summer switch to Barcelona, signing a four-year deal that runs through June 2030. Barcelona agreed on a guaranteed base fee of €60 million with Manchester City, while performance bonuses could increase the total fee up to €76.5 million.
The Spanish international pushed for a move after an impressive period at the Etihad Stadium. Initially, Real Madrid led the chase, with agent Pablo Barquero confirming the club presented an irresistible offer. Yet, the player ultimately chose Barcelona over Madrid.
Mourinho Reveals Player Hesitation Cost Madrid the Deal
The Real Madrid coach opened up about the failed transfer attempt. He confirmed the club made a strong offer to Rodri, but the player’s hesitation ended any chance of sealing the deal.
"I spoke to him a couple of times and Real Madrid made him a very good offer," Mourinho told El Chiringuito. "There is a good relationship with City. Without negotiating directly with City first, Madrid reached out to Rodri and made him a major offer. But Rodri hesitated, and his doubts created doubts for me.""He is an extraordinary player and was respectful throughout; nothing negative to say. But Real Madrid demands players who are decisive. When you contact a player, he should be ready to commit immediately. Rodri asked, ‘When do I have to go?’ That’s not the mindset we want. Still, I wish him well... just not too well."
Mourinho Confident in Current Squad Despite Missing Rodri
Though many saw Rodri as a natural successor to Toni Kroos and Luka Modric to control midfield tempo, Mourinho denies any sense of loss or need for replacements in that role.
"I am not lacking Rodri," Mourinho said. "We are not short on players. I’m not ruling out future signings because the market is still open, but if you ask me if the squad is complete, my answer is yes. I really like the group we have."
Madrid's Midfield Setup Ahead of the Season
Throughout pre-season, Mourinho has favored a 4-2-3-1 formation with a double pivot. Federico Valverde and Bernardo Silva have been the primary midfield duo during summer friendlies, playing the most minutes together. As La Liga resumes, Madrid’s midfield strategy remains under close watch.
Rodri’s New Challenge at Barcelona
Now settled at Barcelona, Rodri will work to integrate quickly and help his new team challenge Real Madrid in the title race. The coming season promises exciting clashes between these Spanish giants.
- Barcelona vs Al Ahly SCA - 19 Aug 2026, 20:00
- Espanyol vs Real Madrid - 22 Aug 2026, 21:30
