Rodri Reveals Why He Chose Barcelona Despite Real Madrid Interest

Barcelona midfielder Rodri has opened up about his decision to join the Catalan giants, revealing that Real Madrid’s serious pursuit made the choice considerably more difficult.

In an interview with COPE, the Spain international discussed his transfer, Real Madrid’s interest, the Madrid derby, Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or chances, Raphinha, Pedri and his first experiences working under Hansi Flick.

Real Madrid Made Rodri's Decision Difficult

Rodri confirmed that Real Madrid were interested in signing him from the beginning and made their intentions clear through several contacts.

The midfielder praised the way Madrid handled their pursuit but admitted that their determination created a genuine dilemma for him.

“Madrid showed an interest right from the start; they behaved impeccably, and their offers were aimed at securing the player.”

Rodri also revealed that he spoke with people connected to Real Madrid who made it clear how strongly the club wanted him.

When asked whether he had spoken directly with president Florentino Pérez, Rodri chose not to reveal the details.

“Did I speak to Florentino? I’m going to keep that to myself.”

Despite Madrid’s efforts, Rodri eventually decided that Barcelona’s sporting project was the right fit for him.

Why Rodri Chose Barcelona

Rather than pointing to one specific conversation or moment, Rodri explained that his decision was primarily based on Barcelona’s footballing direction.

The midfielder believes the current generation at the club has the potential to achieve significant things.

“It wasn’t for a specific moment; it was a sports-related matter. I think this generation of Barça is going to give a lot to talk about.”

His comments underline the importance of Barcelona’s young core in convincing him to make the move.

Rodri Gives His View on the Madrid Derby

Rodri also gave his assessment of the latest Madrid derby and the controversial incidents involving Cristian Romero and Kang-in Lee.

From a purely footballing perspective, he felt Atlético Madrid were the stronger side and deserved their victory.

“I think Atletico Madrid were the better side, more present on the pitch, made better decisions, dictated the game, and I think they fully deserved the win.”

Rodri acknowledged that some incidents could have been handled differently, including the challenges involving Romero and Kang-in Lee.

However, he stressed that he prefers to evaluate the match itself rather than focus heavily on refereeing decisions.

He also argued that while referees can make mistakes, he does not believe those errors have a major influence across an entire 38-match league campaign.

Rodri Weighs In on Yamal and the Ballon d'Or

The Barcelona midfielder was also asked about Lamine Yamal's chances of winning the Ballon d'Or.

Rodri believes Barcelona are justified in backing their teenage superstar, although he pointed out that several players have legitimate claims to the award.

“I think it’s fair for the club to believe he deserves it. I have the feeling that many players deserve it.”

He also highlighted how open the award has become compared with the era dominated by Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

“Now everything is more open than in the Messi and Cristiano era.”

However, Rodri expressed greater surprise at Raphinha and Pedri being left out of the final 30-man shortlist.

“It’s hard to understand how they’re not among the 30.”

He singled out Raphinha for particular praise, admitting that the Brazilian has been the player who has surprised him the most.

Rodri Reveals Big Difference Between Flick and Guardiola

Rodri also offered an early insight into life under Hansi Flick.

Having previously worked with Pep Guardiola, the midfielder was asked whether Flick's methods resemble those of his former manager.

His answer was emphatic.

“It doesn’t resemble Guardiola in the slightest.”

Rodri even joked about the intensity of his first few days under Flick, saying:

“The first four days they gave me a physical beating that wasn’t normal.”

The midfielder is now settling into life at Barcelona, with his comments offering an insight into why the club's sporting project ultimately won him over despite serious interest from Real Madrid.