Barcelona turn to Rodri after Manchester City midfielder becomes unexpectedly available

Barcelona sporting director Deco says the club had not planned to sign Rodri at the start of the transfer window, but moved quickly once the Manchester City midfielder became available.

Deco was speaking after Barcelona beat Egyptian club Al Ahly 2-1 in the Joan Gamper Trophy on Wednesday evening. His comments came a day after Barcelona announced the signing of the Spain international, who had turned down an offer from Real Madrid.

The move has raised questions over whether Barcelona had outmanoeuvred their long-standing rivals in the transfer market. However, Deco rejected the idea that the deal was designed to prevent Real Madrid from signing the player.

“We are happy with all the players we have signed. Every deal was completed according to a clear logic, and before finalising any transfer we think carefully and discuss it internally,” Deco told TV3, in comments reported by AS.

“Rodri was not part of our plans because we did not think he would be available. When that changed, and considering his character, his qualities and how well he fits Barcelona, we felt he could improve the team significantly.”

Deco said Barcelona’s decision was based on the midfielder’s qualities rather than a desire to disrupt Real Madrid’s plans. He also stressed that the club had not expected the opportunity to arise.

“We do not sign players in order to deprive another club of them. Rodri is a world champion, and a few months ago we did not know that he would be available,” he said.

“We know very well what he can give us,” Deco added, highlighting the footballing contribution Barcelona expect from the Spain midfielder.

The signing places Rodri among the players who have chosen Barcelona over Real Madrid, a group also associated with high-profile moves involving Neymar and Luis Suarez. The transfer was announced by Barcelona on Tuesday evening after the player rejected Real Madrid’s offer.

Deco’s comments indicate that Barcelona viewed the deal as an unexpected opportunity rather than a long-standing recruitment target. The club’s sporting director said the midfielder’s personality, playing characteristics and suitability for Barcelona ultimately convinced the club to act.

The remarks followed Barcelona’s 2-1 victory over Al Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy, the friendly competition in which the new signing’s arrival was discussed publicly by the club’s sporting director.

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