FC Barcelona: José Mourinho takes a swipe at Rodri

On Tuesday, FC Barcelona officially announced the signing of Rodri as their latest acquisition. Many have already dubbed the move a major victory over Real Madrid. Now, José Mourinho has weighed in with his own take.

In Spain, Rodri’s (30) arrival at FC Barcelona has been universally praised by pundits. Unveiled to the media on Tuesday, the 2026 World Cup’s best player was naturally asked about his decision. "I had other options, but Barça was my first choice, and I made that clear to Laporta. The first thing was to understand that my chapter at my club (Manchester City, editor’s note) had ended, and I needed to find a way out. It took me a while to accept it. It’s the most special club I’ve ever been at. I studied and analyzed my options—some very big clubs were interested. With my family and loved ones, we made what we believe is the best decision. My choices are always tied to sporting challenges," he explained.

Over at Real Madrid, reactions have been swift. José Mourinho broke his silence on the show El Chiringuito to set the record straight. The Portuguese manager responded to those who see Barça’s signing as a massive win over Madrid. "Victories are won on the pitch—that’s where the titles are, that’s where the real wins happen," he declared.

Read also: Manchester City: Real Madrid wanted Rodri for 40 million euros

Mourinho believes Barça doesn’t need Rodri. "No, I don’t miss Rodri. We have solutions, we have quality, we have players we’re watching and analyzing, maybe judging them by what they’ve accomplished, but I like to think I can help players develop. A player who is one thing today can become something else tomorrow. Yes, I spoke to him twice and Real Madrid made him a very good offer. I think we have an excellent relationship with Manchester City. Without negotiating with Manchester City directly, the club reached out to Rodrigo and made him a substantial offer," he revealed, before concluding.

"Rodrigo had doubts, he hesitated... and his hesitation made me hesitate as well. He’s an extraordinary player and was very professional with us—I have nothing negative to say about him. But Real Madrid is such a massive club, we can’t afford players who need to think twice. You contact him, and the player should just say: 'When do I show up?' That’s how it works. Rodrigo behaved impeccably with us and I wish him good luck. Not too much luck, obviously. But I do wish him well." Mourinho concluded.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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