Rodri arrival gives Barcelona midfield new control and authority, says Hansi Flick

Hansi Flick believes Rodri’s arrival can transform Barcelona’s midfield and raise the performance level of every player around him during the coming season.

Barcelona have announced the signing of the Spain international, who has already appeared on the club’s official website wearing the number 16 shirt. Flick is convinced the 30-year-old has the qualities required to become an outstanding defensive midfielder and a central figure in his plans.

Speaking in comments reported by Catalan newspaper Sport, the Barcelona manager said: “I think he is perhaps the best number six. He can control the game and he also provides great help defensively.”

Flick’s praise was not limited to Rodri’s ability to dictate possession, build attacks and control the tempo of matches. He also highlighted the midfielder’s strength in challenges and aerial contests, an aspect he considers particularly important to Barcelona’s approach.

“Aerial duels are very important for us,” said Flick.

The German manager expects Rodri’s influence to extend beyond his own position. He added: “Of course, his arrival will raise the level of every player.”

Rodri’s experience is also expected to be valuable inside a Barcelona dressing room containing several young midfielders. Flick will look to him to support the development of players including Pedri, Gavi, Fermin Lopez and Marc Bernal, while providing greater authority and leadership to the team.

The midfielder joins Barcelona at a significant moment for the club, particularly after Frenkie de Jong suffered an injury that is expected to keep him out for several months. De Jong’s absence was one of the factors that encouraged Flick to search for a player capable of operating effectively as the side’s holding midfielder.

Rodri fits the profile sought by the manager because of his experience, leadership, composure under pressure and ability to dictate the rhythm of a game. His capacity to retain possession and play the ball out from deep is also viewed as an important addition to Barcelona’s midfield options.

At his presentation, Rodri said Barcelona had been his first choice. The Spanish international arrives with an extensive collection of honours, including the World Cup, the UEFA Champions League and several other major trophies. According to the information provided, he has also won the Ballon d’Or twice.

Flick hopes Rodri will become one of the main pillars of his project at Barcelona. The manager believes his arrival can give the midfield a stronger balance, greater experience and more physical presence, while also helping the club’s younger players.

The move represents a major step for Barcelona as they prepare for the new season, with Flick placing particular importance on the control and defensive security that Rodri can provide from the base of midfield. His ability to influence matches both with and without the ball is central to the manager’s belief that the signing can improve the team as a whole.