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Rodri explains hard decision to snub Real Madrid for Barcelona
16th September, 2026 09:27 AM
Spain captain Rodri has opened up about how he arrived at the decision to join FC Barcelona following a fierce transfer tussle between the two Spanish giants and arch-rivals, Real Madrid, over his signature.
Speaking on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, to Mundo Deportivo, the former Manchester City midfielder who ultimately chose Hansi Flick’s back-to-back La Liga champions, said it was not an easy choice to turn down Real Madrid.
The player revealed that José Mourinho personally called him and explained why he wanted him, though he ultimately had to decline the offer respectfully.
Not an easy decision
“Saying no to Real Madrid was not easy, especially since they treated me so well. I made my decision based on sporting aspects, on what excited me more, and where I felt I could win and grow the most as a player,” Rodri said.
“Mourinho called me and clearly expressed his desire for me to join the club. He treated me very well.”
He also reflected on his years in England with Manchester City, thanking the club that made him a Ballon d’Or winner after a memorable seven years.
“It was more of a process than a decision made at a specific moment. First, you have to understand that one stage is over and that you might want to take on a new challenge, in a place where you can continue building your career,” Rodri stated.
“I must thank Manchester City for everything the club has given me. They were seven unforgettable years, both personally and sportingly.”
Ballon d’Or or snub
The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner further noted that his choice was purely based on footballing grounds, aligning with his personal ambitions.
He also addressed rumours that Real Madrid’s boycott of his Ballon d’Or win influenced his move to their arch-rivals, after Los Blancos skipped the ceremony believing Vinicius Junior deserved the accolade.
“It is not true that I rejected Real Madrid because they boycotted the Ballon d’Or. At the time, it didn’t affect me; it was my special day,” he stated. “There’s no point in talking about people who were not at the ceremony. It was a beautiful moment for my family and me.”
His choice already appears vindicated, with the Catalan giants making an emphatic start to the La Liga campaign. Following the opening 5 matches of the season, Barcelona sits proudly in 1st place with a 100% record, while Real Madrid trails closely behind in 2nd place.
