Rodri explains Barcelona move after Real Madrid made summer approach

Spain midfielder Rodri says Real Madrid’s interest made his decision to join Barcelona more difficult, but insists his eventual move to the defending La Liga champions was based on sporting considerations.

The 30-year-old joined Barcelona from Manchester City on a four-year contract for a reported £65.4m fee after helping Spain during a successful 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign.

Rodri, a former Ballon d’Or winner and the recipient of the 2026 FIFA Golden Ball, had been widely expected to move to Real Madrid. Speculation about a possible transfer intensified across various media outlets, and the player confirmed that the club had made a serious attempt to sign him.

“Madrid showed an interest right from the start,” Rodri said.

“They behaved impeccably, and their offers were aimed at securing the player – I want to make that clear.

“I don’t know what ‘going all out’ means exactly, but it’s clear they were interested and went all out in showing that interest, which I appreciate because I spoke to some of them.”

The midfielder said Real Madrid’s approach was not limited to speculation, with people at the club making clear how strongly they wanted him to move to the Bernabeu.

Asked whether he had spoken directly to Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, Rodri replied: “Did I speak to Florentino [Perez]? I’m going to keep that to myself; I spoke to people there who conveyed their enthusiasm and eagerness for me to join them, which made my decision more difficult.”

Rodri said the choice was not linked to one particular incident or moment, but instead reflected his assessment of the sporting opportunities available at Barcelona.

“It wasn’t for a specific moment; it was a sports-related matter. I think this generation of Barca is going to give a lot to talk about.”

The move brought an end to prolonged uncertainty over Rodri’s future, with Real Madrid having been regarded by many as the most likely destination before Barcelona completed the deal.

Rodri has made seven appearances for Barcelona in all competitions since joining the club. Barcelona have won each of those matches.