Rodri debuts as Barcelona secure second league win

Barcelona registered their second consecutive victory in the La Liga 2026-27 season, overcoming Athletic Club with a 2-0 scoreline. The win was highlighted by the much-anticipated debut of Spain's World Cup-winning midfielder, Rodri, who recently transferred from Manchester City.

Raphinha opened the scoring for Barcelona in the 37th minute, breaking a goalless deadlock. The lead was extended late in the game when Fermin Lopez found the back of the net in the 82nd minute, securing the three points for his team.

“

Everyone is happy he's playing for us, playing for Barca. He is the perfect player for us, the perfect player for our philosophy, the style we want to play football.

Rodri, who had missed the previous match against Elche, came on as a substitute in the second half against Athletic Club. Manager Hansi Flick expressed his delight with the new signing, stating, "Everyone is happy he's playing for us, playing for Barca. He is the perfect player for us, the perfect player for our philosophy, the style we want to play football."

“

I am happy to play my first game with Barcelona, happy for the victory, the second in a row for the team. It is important to start gaining rhythm. I felt good with my first minutes.

Reflecting on his debut, Rodri shared his satisfaction: "I am happy to play my first game with Barcelona, happy for the victory, the second in a row for the team. It is important to start gaining rhythm. I felt good with my first minutes."

The match also saw Anthony Gordon, an Englishman who recently joined from Newcastle United, make his first start for Barcelona. Gordon had previously impressed by scoring two goals off the bench against Elche. Flick praised Gordon's integration into the team, noting his "speed" and "intensity" while also acknowledging his potential for further improvement.

“

His speed, his intensity, it's really good for us, exactly what we want from him. Of course he has just arrived, two and a half weeks ago after the World Cup, so also he has potential to go to another level. And we need him on this level.