Mourinho says Rodri doubts led Real Madrid to move on

José Mourinho has said Real Madrid made Rodri a significant offer before the midfielder chose to join Barcelona, but insisted the player’s uncertainty over the move counted against him in the club’s thinking.

Mourinho confirms Madrid interest

Speaking after Rodri’s presentation as a Barcelona player, Mourinho confirmed that Madrid had been in direct contact with the Spain captain and that he had personally spoken to the midfielder more than once.

According to Mourinho, Madrid made what he described as a very good offer without entering into negotiations with Manchester City at that stage. But he suggested Rodri’s hesitation over the prospect of joining the Bernabéu became a decisive factor.

Mourinho’s view was clear: at a club of Real Madrid’s size, there is little room for uncertainty when a target is approached.

He nevertheless praised Rodri’s conduct, describing him as an outstanding player and making clear he had no criticism of the way the midfielder handled the situation.

Barcelona win the race for Rodri

Rodri completed a €75m (£65.4m) move from Manchester City to Barcelona, with the midfielder saying the Catalan club had always been his first choice. The Spain captain had also attracted interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid after the World Cup.

The source material states that Rodri ruled out PSG because he wanted to return to Spain. He ultimately opted for Barcelona, where he will link up with eight of his international teammates.

• Rodri left Manchester City for Barcelona in a €75m (£65.4m) deal.
• Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain were also among the clubs interested.
• Rodri chose Barcelona after deciding he wanted to return to Spain.

Mourinho plays down the setback

When asked whether Barcelona’s move for Rodri could be viewed as a triumph over their rivals, Mourinho dismissed that idea, arguing that real victories are decided on the pitch and through trophies.

He also made it clear that he does not see Rodri’s decision as a major blow for Madrid. Despite the club not bringing in another midfielder, Mourinho said he believes the squad is complete and that he is satisfied with the options already available to him.

Confidence in the current squad

Mourinho said the transfer window remains open, but his position was that Madrid’s group is effectively settled. He expressed confidence not only in the quality already in the squad, but also in his ability to improve players.

That stance is notable given the source material’s description of midfield as an obvious gap in a side that has not won a major trophy in the past two seasons. Even so, Mourinho’s message was one of certainty: Madrid may have pursued Rodri, but they are prepared to move forward without him.