Rodri Says Barcelona Aren't Champions League Favorites, Highlights What’s Needed for European Success

Rodri Keeps Barcelona’s Champions League Hopes Grounded

Rodri has quickly become a key figure at Barcelona since his move from Manchester City. Despite their recent dominance in La Liga, the Spain captain remains realistic about the club's chances of winning the Champions League again. He believes important steps still need to be taken before they can claim European glory.

Barcelona’s Quest for European Success

Though Barcelona have clinched consecutive La Liga titles, their success hasn’t extended to Europe. The club is desperate to end a 12-year wait for the Champions League trophy, which was a major reason behind signing the 30-year-old midfielder this summer.

Rodri has settled in well and anchors the midfield strongly. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, he gave a clear-eyed view of where the team stands among Europe’s best.

Not Yet Favorites for the Champions League

Rodri acknowledged the squad’s talent but was cautious about immediate expectations. He said, The Champions League is achievable, but I don’t think we’re favorites. Obviously, I see it as a realistic title for us. It’s that final step we need to take to establish ourselves and show Europe what kind of team we are.

He added that talent alone doesn’t guarantee continental triumph. You have to understand where we’re coming from and what it takes to become champions. This team still needs to polish several things to win it. Players like me have come here partly for that — to help the team grow and provide something important when it comes to winning titles as unique as the Champions League.

Focus on Key Moments and Defensive Discipline

Barcelona’s recent exits in Europe often involved defensive mistakes and disciplinary issues, especially against teams like Inter and Atletico Madrid. Rodri stressed the importance of managing those critical moments.

I don’t think the Champions League is a tournament where the best team necessarily wins. It’s a tournament of moments, and understanding those moments is where this team still has room to improve. If you ask me whether we have a chance, that’s why I came here.

He also emphasized a pragmatic approach over flashy attacking play. It’s about controlling those moments that make the difference in a tie, especially in knockout rounds. Red cards, penalties, not conceding more than you should — all of these decide if you progress or go out. Maybe it’s better not to be quite as good offensively but to be more consistent and solid. The teams that have won it have shown that. That’s where we have room to improve, and I’m sure we will.

Learning from Experience

Looking forward, Barcelona need to turn past European disappointments into lessons for future campaigns. Rodri, who has endured many seasons before tasting Champions League victory in England, sees experience as crucial.

Before you win, you have to lose and learn. Those of us who have won big know that. I’ve played in countless Champions League campaigns before finally winning it. There’s a learning process, and players grow year after year.

Barcelona hope to use this knowledge as they prepare for their upcoming European challenges, aiming to reclaim their place among the continent’s elite.

• LaLiga Match: Barcelona vs Racing Santander
• Date: 16 Sept 2026
• Kick-off: 22:30