Rodri chooses FC Barcelona over Real Madrid

Spain international Rodri has opted to join FC Barcelona, rejecting a significant proposal from Real Madrid. The decision, reportedly finalized on August 5, followed intense negotiations between the two clubs and the player’s representatives.

Real Madrid had been pursuing the midfielder for months, eventually attempting to secure him on a four-year contract. However, Barcelona sporting director Deco reportedly met with the player’s representative, Pablo Barquero, to indicate the club was prepared to meet his contractual demands. Barcelona’s interest was reportedly bolstered by concerns regarding the severity of Frenkie de Jong’s injury.

The transfer process involved strategic maneuvers, including what has been described as the ‘Fábregas Method’ of persuasion. While Real Madrid presented a high-magnitude offer, Rodri and his family were reportedly dissatisfied with how they were treated by the club following his Ballon d’Or win. Barcelona maintained a firm stance, waiting for the player to explicitly choose their project before submitting a formal offer.