Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has revealed that the Spanish club made an important offer to midfielder Rodri but eventually decided against pursuing the deal after the player expressed doubts about joining.
Mourinho said he personally spoke with Rodri several times during discussions over a possible move to the Spanish giants. However, the midfielder’s hesitation raised concerns for the Portuguese coach.
“I spoke personally with Rodri a few times, we also sent him an important offer but he told us about having some doubts,” Mourinho said in an interview with El Chiringuito.
The manager explained that Rodri’s uncertainty also made him question whether the transfer was the right move for Real Madrid.
“To see Rodri having doubts, that created doubts in me about signing him,” Mourinho added.
Rodri had been strongly linked with Real Madrid during the summer after an outstanding period with Manchester City and Spain. The midfielder had also been regarded as a major target for Mourinho following his return to the Madrid club.
The transfer saga has now ended with Rodri joining Real Madrid’s biggest rivals, Barcelona. The Catalan club completed the signing of the midfielder from Manchester City on a four-year contract running until 2030.
Rodri spent seven successful seasons at Manchester City, where he became one of the most important midfielders in European football.
He played a key role in the club’s 2023 Champions League triumph and won the Ballon d’Or in 2024. He has also been a key figure for Spain.
His move to Barcelona is therefore a major addition to Hansi Flick’s squad and gives the club an experienced player capable of controlling the midfield.
