Mourinho reveals Rodri's doubts over Real Madrid sealed his Barcelona move

Jose Mourinho has revealed that Rodri’s hesitation over joining Real Madrid was the decisive factor that led the Spain midfielder to sign for Barcelona instead, completing a move from Manchester City on Tuesday on a deal running through to 2030.

The Real Madrid manager confirmed he spoke with the 30-year-old on multiple occasions and that the club tabled a significant offer, but Rodri’s expressed doubts ultimately caused Mourinho to withdraw his own interest.

“I spoke with [Rodri] a couple of times,” Mourinho said in an interview on Spanish TV show El Chiringuito. “Real Madrid made him a very good offer. I think the relationship between Real Madrid and City is very good. The club made him an important offer. Rodri had doubts, he doubted, and I think what happened is that the doubts Rodri had, gave me doubts.”

Mourinho, back at the Bernabéu for a second stint as manager, framed his decision to step back as a matter of principle rather than a reflection on Rodri’s quality. “He’s an extraordinary player. But I think Real Madrid are so big that we can’t have players who think twice. That’s the concept. But he behaved properly with us, and I wish him well.”

Rodri had made clear his desire to return to Spain after seven years in the Premier League, and Barcelona ultimately moved swiftly to secure his signature once Madrid’s interest cooled. The midfielder is among the leading contenders to win the Ballon d’Or for a second time following his influential role in Spain’s World Cup triumph.

Real Madrid open their La Liga season with a trip to Espanyol on Saturday, while Barcelona begin their campaign at Elche.