Rodri Releases Statement After Being Exposed For Calling Barcelona Opponents ‘Terrible’

Rodri Releases Statement After Being Exposed for Calling Barcelona Opponents ‘Terrible’ Barcelona midfielder Rodri has apologised to Valencia and their supporters after he was caught on camera describing the club’s players as “terrible” during Barcelona’s emphatic 5–0 victory at Mestalla. The Spain international made the comments while speaking to teammate Pau Cubarsí on the substitutes’ bench after being substituted in the second half. The conversation was captured by cameras from the Spanish programme El Día Después. Following the backlash, Rodri issued a public apology after Barcelona’s Champions League victory over Feyenoord on Wednesday. The midfielder said he had also personally contacted Valencia captain José Gayà to apologise for his remarks and explain the circumstances surrounding the incident. Rodri acknowledged that he had made a mistake and expressed hope that Valencia would return to their position among Spain’s leading clubs. He also stressed that the comments were made during what he believed was a private conversation and were not intended as an attempt to ridicule Valencia or its players. Rodri was recorded describing Valencia’s players as “really weak” and “terrible” after Barcelona dominated the encounter. He also appeared surprised when Cubarsí reminded him that Valencia had come close to European qualification during the previous season. The comments quickly circulated online, generating criticism because of the player’s status as one of Spain’s most prominent footballers. The controversy came after an overwhelming Barcelona performance. Hansi Flick’s side defeated Valencia 5–0, with Lamine Yamal scoring twice while Fermín López, Raphinha and Pedri also found the net. Barcelona dominated possession and created a large number of chances, leaving Valencia struggling to threaten their opponents for long periods. Rodri, who joined Barcelona from Manchester City during the summer, started the match before being substituted after 61 minutes. Rather than allowing the incident to escalate, Rodri moved quickly to address the situation. His direct apology to Gayà and subsequent public statement were aimed at making clear that his comments were not intended to disrespect Valencia. The midfielder has now turned his attention back to Barcelona’s season after helping the club make a strong start to their Champions League campaign.