Rodri chooses Barcelona shirt number with Fermin Lopez move opening the way

Rodri will wear the number 16 shirt at Barcelona after joining the Catalan club from Manchester City on a contract running until 2030.

The Spain midfielder completed his move earlier on Tuesday, with Barcelona confirming his arrival as they prepare for the new season. He has now settled on the squad number he will use during his first campaign at the club.

Rodri’s decision sees him return to a number that has featured during several important stages of his professional career. He previously wore 16 at Villarreal, Manchester City and with the Spain national team.

The number became available after Fermin Lopez decided to change shirts. Lopez has taken the number seven jersey, which was left vacant following Ferran Torres’ move to Paris Saint-Germain.

Lopez had previously spoken of his sadness at giving up the number he had worn during his early years with Barcelona’s first team. However, his decision has allowed Rodri to take a shirt with personal significance as he begins a new chapter at Camp Nou.

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, the midfielder’s attachment to number 16 was an important factor in his choice. Rodri has used it during different periods of his career, making it a familiar symbol as he moves from the Premier League to La Liga.

Barcelona are placing significant expectations on the 29-year-old, with manager Hansi Flick viewing him as one of the key components of his midfield. The club are hoping Rodri’s experience and ability to control matches will provide the balance they have been seeking.

His role is expected to extend beyond winning possession. Barcelona believe his capacity to organise play, dictate the tempo and impose control in central areas can strengthen the team across the season.

Flick has previously described Rodri as the best player in his position and highlighted the qualities he can bring to the side. The signing reflects Barcelona’s intention to add authority and structure to their midfield, while also providing an experienced presence for the rest of the squad.

Rodri arrives at Barcelona after an extended spell with Manchester City, where he established himself as a central figure. His return to number 16 offers an early connection with his previous clubs and with Spain, while his immediate focus will be adapting to Flick’s plans for the new campaign.

The club’s confirmation of his shirt number comes on the same day as the announcement of his signing. With the number seven now worn by Fermin Lopez and number 16 assigned to Rodri, Barcelona have completed the first details of their new midfielder’s arrival.