Mourinho dismisses failed Rodri transfer: "His doubts sowed doubt in me"

José Mourinho has spoken for the first time about Rodri’s transfer to FC Barcelona, officially completed on Tuesday for €70 million, sweeping aside any regret and accepting Real Madrid’s decision not to push further.

The Spanish midfielder, 2024 Ballon d’Or winner, was presented as a priority target for the Casa Blanca during this summer’s transfer window. But it was ultimately the great Catalan rival who secured the deal, in what was widely perceived as a masterstroke for Barça and a setback for Madrid. Mourinho, however, rejects this interpretation.

“If you ask me, the transfer window is over. I really like my squad. Rodri is not missed,” he declared in an interview with El Chiringuito, speaking to journalist Josep Pedrerol. “We have solutions, we have quality. I also like to tell myself that I have the capacity to develop players.”

The Portuguese manager nevertheless detailed the behind-the-scenes negotiations. According to him, Real Madrid made a serious offer to Rodri, without going through Manchester City. “The club contacted Rodri directly and made him a substantial offer. We have excellent relations with City,” he clarified.

It was the player’s attitude that ultimately cooled Madrid’s ardor. “Rodri is an extraordinary player, he was very correct with us. But he had doubts, he hesitated… and his doubts sowed doubt in me,” Mourinho said. “Real Madrid is of such caliber that it cannot afford to have players who hesitate.”

The phrase, typical of the “Special One’s” style, officially closes the file on Madrid’s side. It remains to be seen whether Mourinho’s current squad will be able to confirm this serenity displayed throughout the season.