Rabat – Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho has openly addressed the Rodri transfer to Barcelona. He confirmed that the Spanish club made a strong offer to acquire the midfielder.
The Portuguese manager spoke extensively about the failed negotiations during an interview with the Spanish television program El Chiringuito. Mourinho revealed that he spoke with the 30-year-old player several times.
He noted that Real Madrid maintains excellent relations with Manchester City. The royal club contacted the player directly to present a highly competitive proposal.
However, the Spanish international showed hesitation regarding the move. This uncertainty prompted the veteran manager to reconsider the viability of the signing.
Mourinho emphasized that a club of Real Madrid’s magnitude cannot accommodate players who hesitate. He explained that a call from the team should result in immediate acceptance.
“Rodri is an exceptional player,” Mourinho told El Chiringuito, according to a report by Goal. “But Real Madrid is a club of this size, it cannot have hesitating players.”
The manager expressed full confidence in his current squad. He dismissed any suggestions that missing out on this high-profile signing would negatively impact his tactical plans.
“I do not lack Rodri,” the coach stated firmly. He highlighted that the current roster possesses both the solutions and the necessary quality to succeed.
Mourinho also reiterated his belief in his own ability to develop young players. When asked if the signing represented a victory for Barcelona, he offered a sharp response.
He insisted that true victories only happen on the pitch. The manager concluded that titles are the only measure of genuine triumph in professional football.
Barcelona officially announced the acquisition of the Spanish star on August 18. The midfielder signed a four-year contract with the Catalan side.
The move reportedly cost Barcelona €76 million (MAD 820 million). This high-profile Rodri transfer adds significant quality to their midfield options for the upcoming season.
Moroccan fans closely follow the Spanish top-flight league. The rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona always draws massive television audiences across North Africa.
Mourinho is preparing his team for the upcoming campaign despite the missed opportunity. The squad recently concluded their pre-season preparations with a solid performance.
