Rodri says Real Madrid’s low-profile approach will not unsettle Barcelona

Rodri has warned Barcelona that Real Madrid remain a formidable opponent, regardless of their current form or the circumstances surrounding them. The Spanish international believes Barcelona must produce their best performance if they are to win Sunday’s major La Liga contest at Spotify Camp Nou.

Real Madrid visit Barcelona for the 10th round of the league season, with Rodri rejecting the suggestion that their opponents can disguise their true strength by appearing less impressive than they are.

“They do not fool us – or at least they do not fool me,” Rodri told ESPN.

The Barcelona midfielder said his long experience of facing Real Madrid had taught him not to judge them solely on their apparent level of performance.

“I have known Real Madrid’s players well for many years and have played against them in many knockout ties,” he said. “I have realised that one of their main strengths is their ability to make opponents believe they are not really playing at that high a level.”

Rodri, formerly of Manchester City, insisted that Real Madrid should always be treated as a serious threat, irrespective of their form or the situation around the club.

“Real Madrid are always an extremely strong opponent, whatever level they are going through or whatever circumstances surround them,” he added.

“For us, and this is what I try to convey to my team-mates, we have to produce our best level if we want to beat them.”

Rodri’s role at Barcelona

Rodri also outlined the qualities he believes he can bring to Barcelona, highlighting his experience and leadership as well as his contribution on the pitch.

“I think the most important things I can offer this team are my experience and the leadership role I have,” he said. “That includes helping to organise my team-mates and instilling a positive mentality in them.”

He added that he could help Barcelona maintain their confidence during difficult periods in matches.

“Perhaps I can also lift their spirits and support them through the difficult moments we may experience during games,” Rodri said.

On his footballing contribution, Rodri said the standards within the Barcelona squad were already exceptionally high, particularly in midfield.

“From a footballing perspective, it is clear that the level here is extremely high,” he said. “All the players, especially in midfield, possess tremendous quality.”

Rodri said he had joined Barcelona to make a difference and believed he could provide the team with further assistance technically.

“It is obvious that I came to Barcelona to add something, and I believe I can help the team even more on the technical side,” he said.