Rodri surprised by Raphinha’s fitness at Barcelona and would sign Julian Alvarez

Rodri says Raphinha has been the biggest surprise since his arrival at Barcelona, praising the Brazilian forward’s outstanding physical condition and performances under Hansi Flick.

The 30-year-old midfielder, speaking to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo, discussed several of his team-mates and admitted that much of life at Barcelona remains new to him after recently joining the Catalan club.

Raphinha was among the players Rodri had not previously known well. The Brazil international has impressed him further after being used in a central attacking role by Flick, rather than operating primarily from his usual position.

Asked which player had surprised him most at Barcelona, Rodri replied: “Raphinha surprised me a lot. It was not because I did not know the player he is, but he is an incredible player and he is going through a wonderful period.”

Rodri also highlighted Raphinha’s fitness, noting that they are the same age despite appearing to have very different physical profiles.

“I also laugh because he is the same age as me, yet he seems to have a physical capacity…” Rodri said. “It is true that we have different characteristics, that is obvious, but anyone could think he was 24 or 25. But no, he is 30, like me, and still has this enormous physical capacity.”

Rodri was then asked whether he would sign Julian Alvarez, having played alongside the Argentina international at Manchester City.

“He is a great player. Definitely, yes, I would sign Julian,” Rodri said. “I was also fortunate to play with him for two years, and I see him as an exceptional player.”

The midfielder added that Alvarez’s versatility had been one of his main strengths. Although he arrived as a centre-forward, Alvarez often operated as a second striker and was also able to contribute from deeper positions.

“He played more often as a second striker than as a centre-forward, even though he came from playing as a centre-forward,” Rodri said.

“Alvarez also adapted to a position where he could play behind the striker or as a second striker. He even played matches as a midfielder, but for me he is an incredible player.”