Rodri's Indirect Remark to Real Madrid: 'Barcelona Was My First Option'

Spanish midfielder Rodrigo Hernandez, widely known as Rodri, has officially signed with Barcelona, committing to the club until June 30, 2030. The transfer marks a significant move for the player, who expressed that Barcelona was consistently his "first option" when considering a departure from Manchester City.

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Barcelona is a great club, it has been a benchmark for its playing philosophy and the values it represents. I had other options, but Barcelona was my first option, and I made that clear to Joan Laporta and the board.

Rodri shared his decision during his official presentation, stating, "Barcelona is a great club, it has been a benchmark for its playing philosophy and the values it represents. I had other options, but Barcelona was my first option, and I made that clear to Joan Laporta and the board."

After arriving in Barcelona on Monday, undergoing a medical examination on Tuesday at the Joan Gamper Sports City, signing his new contract, and having lunch with club executives, Rodri elaborated on his choice. He cited the club's project and future prospects as key factors, in addition to its present strength. "One of the reasons for coming here is not just the present but the projection of the project. Barça's midfield is spectacular, but we have a lot of talent in all lines. I come eager to keep improving," he noted.

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One of the reasons for coming here is not just the present but the projection of the project. Barça's midfield is spectacular, but we have a lot of talent in all lines. I come eager to keep improving.

The 28-year-old midfielder also expressed his ambition for the team's success. "We are building a team to win in Europe, in Spain... I am looking forward to all objectives being met at the end of the season," Rodri added.

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We are building a team to win in Europe, in Spain... I am looking forward to all objectives being met at the end of the season.

Sources indicate the transfer fee settled at approximately 60 million euros, with an additional 11 million euros in potential variables. Rodri mentioned receiving a "great welcome" from his new teammates. He will join seven Spanish national team colleagues at Barcelona, including Joan García, Pau Cubarsí, Gavi, Pedri, Olmo, Eric Garcia, and Lamine Yamal, with whom he recently won the World Cup.

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great reception