José Mourinho said midfielder Rodri chose to sign with Barcelona because of doubts the player had about joining Real Madrid [1].
The transfer represents a significant shift in power between Spain's two biggest rivals, as Barcelona secured one of the world's premier midfielders from Manchester City.
In recent interviews, Mourinho said the circumstances surrounding the move during the current summer transfer window [3]. He said that the player's hesitation regarding a move to the Spanish capital played a decisive role in the final destination [1].
"He had doubts," Mourinho said [3].
Rodri, who is 30 years old [4], completed the move to Barcelona for a transfer fee of €76.5 million [4]. The acquisition allows Barcelona to bolster its midfield with a veteran presence previously anchored at Manchester City.
While Real Madrid was previously linked to the Spanish international, the doubts cited by Mourinho redirected the trajectory of the deal. The move concludes a period of speculation regarding where the midfielder would spend the next stage of his career [2].
The transfer comes amid a competitive window where both clubs have sought to upgrade their squads for the upcoming season. By securing Rodri, Barcelona has added a proven winner to its ranks while denying a direct competitor the same asset [4].
“"He had doubts,"”
The acquisition of Rodri for €76.5 million provides Barcelona with immediate tactical stability in the midfield. By choosing Barcelona over Real Madrid, Rodri has shifted the competitive balance of La Liga, depriving a primary rival of a world-class pivot while signaling that player preference and psychological comfort can outweigh the allure of the Santiago Bernabéu.
