Jose Mourinho Explains Why Real Madrid Abandoned Rodri Pursuit Ahead of Barcelona Transfer

Why Real Madrid Walked Away From Rodri

Jose Mourinho has revealed the key reason Real Madrid dropped their chase for Rodri, who eventually moved to Barcelona in a high-profile summer transfer. The former Manchester City midfielder, and 2025 Ballon d'Or winner, signed with Barcelona on a four-year deal until June 2030, but Mourinho insists he harbors no regrets about missing out.

Barcelona Lands Rodri in Major Deal

Rodri’s transfer to Barcelona was completed officially in August 2026. The Catalan club agreed a base fee of €60 million with Manchester City, with potential add-ons pushing the price up to €76.5 million. After a standout tenure at the Etihad Stadium, Rodri was eager to leave, setting off a fierce competition between Spain’s top teams.

Real Madrid initially appeared to lead the race, making an irresistible offer through agent Pablo Barquero, but Rodri ultimately chose their rivals instead.

Mourinho Lifts the Veil on Failed Signing

The seasoned coach explained that despite Madrid presenting a lucrative contract and maintaining good relations with City, Rodri's hesitation stalled the move. Mourinho told El Chiringuito,

"I spoke to him a couple of times and Real Madrid made him a very good offer. I think there is a very good relationship with City. Without negotiating with City, the club made contact with Rodri, they made him a major offer. Rodri had doubts, he hesitated and Rodri’s doubts created doubts for me."

He added that while Rodri showed respect throughout the process, Madrid demands players who are fully committed without second-guessing themselves. Mourinho wished the player well—just not too well.

No Regrets Over Missing the Ballon d’Or Winner

Mourinho dismissed the idea that losing Rodri left a gap in Real Madrid's midfield, even though many saw the Spanish international as the ideal successor to veterans Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. The Portuguese manager expressed confidence in his current squad and player growth.

"I am not lacking Rodri," Mourinho said. "We are not lacking players. I’m not saying there won’t be any more signings because the market is open, but if you ask me directly if it’s closed for me… yes. It is closed. I really like the squad."

Madrid’s Midfield Setup Ahead of New Season

During preseason, Mourinho favored a 4-2-3-1 formation with a double pivot shielding the attack. Federico Valverde and Bernardo Silva played the most minutes as the primary midfield duo, shaping Madrid’s approach heading into the Liga opener. The midfield remains a central point of discussion as the season begins.

Meanwhile, Rodri will focus on settling into the Barcelona team, aiming to challenge Mourinho’s men for the Spanish league title.

• Upcoming Friendlies:
• Barcelona vs Al Ahly SCA - 19 Aug 2026, 20:00
• Espanyol vs Real Madrid - 22 Aug 2026, 21:30