Archive · 19 Aug 2026
Mourinho Says Real Madrid Can Thrive Without Rodri Move
Real Madrid wanted to sign Rodri from Manchester City.
The club made him a strong offer, but Rodri chose to join FC Barcelona instead.
José Mourinho said he spoke with Rodri twice during the discussions.
Mourinho felt Rodri was unsure about joining Madrid.
Because of that uncertainty, Mourinho said Madrid decided not to depend on him.
He believes Madrid already has good midfield options.
Madrid has also signed several other players.
Mourinho said the club probably will not make more signings, even though the transfer market is still open.
José Mourinho said Real Madrid made “a very good offer” for Rodri but will manage without him.
Rodri officially transferred from Manchester City to Real Madrid rival FC Barcelona on Tuesday.
Mourinho said Rodri’s uncertainty about joining Madrid created doubts about pursuing the midfielder.
The Madrid manager said the club has quality alternatives and that victories are decided by titles.
Mourinho said Madrid’s transfer activity is effectively finished, although the market remains open.
- Who
- Real Madrid, manager José Mourinho, Rodri, Manchester City and FC Barcelona.
- What
- Rodri completed a transfer from Manchester City to FC Barcelona after Real Madrid tried to sign him.
- When
- The transfer was officially announced on Tuesday; Mourinho was hired in June and took over in July.
- Where
- The move involved Manchester City, Real Madrid and FC Barcelona.
- Why
- Mourinho said Rodri’s uncertainty about joining Real Madrid created doubts, while Barcelona completed the signing.
Mourinho’s Position
Transfer Outcome
Rodri’s importance to Madrid
Mourinho’s Position
Mourinho said Real Madrid has solutions and quality players, and that the team does not need Rodri.
Transfer Outcome
Rodri’s move to FC Barcelona gives Madrid’s rival a midfielder whom Mourinho described as extraordinary.
Why the deal failed
Mourinho’s Position
Mourinho said Rodri’s doubts about joining Madrid created doubts for the club and that Madrid should not pursue players who hesitate.
Transfer Outcome
Rodri ultimately chose FC Barcelona, which officially completed the transfer from Manchester City.
Madrid’s transfer window
Mourinho’s Position
Mourinho said Madrid has already strengthened its squad and is effectively finished making signings.
Transfer Outcome
The club could still add players because Mourinho acknowledged that the transfer market remains open.
- Player
- Rodri
- New club
- FC Barcelona
- Former club
- Manchester City
- Interested club
- Real Madrid
- Manager
- José Mourinho
- Madrid’s position
- Mourinho said the club has quality alternatives and does not need Rodri.
- Transfer plans
- Mourinho said Madrid’s transfer business is effectively closed, though the market remains open.