Mourinho Explains Why Real Madrid Walked Away From Rodri Deal

Mourinho Explains Why Real Madrid Walked Away From Rodri Deal

Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has revealed that Rodri’s hesitation over joining the Spanish giants ultimately contributed to the club abandoning its pursuit of the Barcelona-bound midfielder.

Mourinho said he personally spoke with Rodri several times and confirmed that Real Madrid made the Spain international a “very good offer” before the negotiations stalled. According to Mourinho, Rodri’s uncertainty over the move made the manager question whether Real Madrid should continue pursuing him. Mourinho explained that Real Madrid expects players to be completely convinced about representing the club. In his view, the stature of the Spanish giants means they cannot afford to pursue players who are uncertain about making the move. Despite the failed transfer, Mourinho praised Rodri as an “extraordinary player” and said the midfielder behaved correctly throughout the discussions.

Rodri has since completed his move from Manchester City to Barcelona, choosing the Catalan club after Real Madrid ended their pursuit. The transfer represents one of the biggest moves of the summer and gives Barcelona another world-class option in midfield.

Mourinho, however, insisted that Real Madrid have enough quality in midfield and said he does not regret missing out on the 2024 Ballon d’Or winner. Rodri was viewed as a potential cornerstone of Mourinho’s rebuilding project at Real Madrid. His decision to join Barcelona instead gives Madrid’s fierce rivals a major midfield reinforcement while leaving Mourinho to work with alternative options. Real Madrid wanted Rodri, but Mourinho says the player’s hesitation changed the equation. Once the midfielder appeared unsure about joining, Madrid decided that a player who “thinks twice” was not the right fit for the club.