Jose Mourinho, the head coach of Real Madrid, confirmed his full confidence in his team’s ability to continue their successful journey without needing midfielder Rodri, despite the “very tempting” offer made by the royal club to sign the Spanish national team captain before his move to Barcelona.
Rodri officially signed with traditional rivals Barcelona, coming from Manchester City last Tuesday, in a deal that sparked much controversy. Mourinho, who returned to coach Real Madrid for a second term, revealed that he held two conversations with Rodri while the club was considering signing the best player of the World Cup, but sensed the player’s hesitation and indecision about his future.
Mourinho stated in a television interview on Tuesday that the club contacted the player, but Rodri’s doubts caused Mourinho to have similar reservations. He added, “Real Madrid is a club of such grandeur that it cannot sign players who hesitate twice about playing for it,” emphasizing that the player must be decisive in his decision to join the royal club.
These statements came hours before the official announcement of Rodri’s transfer to Barcelona, coinciding with Mourinho’s presentation ceremony as Real Madrid coach, which was held away from media and audiences. Mourinho clarified that “Mourinho Rodri Real Madrid” is not needed in the team’s squad, stressing that they have “solutions and quality players,” and he does not believe that Barcelona has surpassed them by signing him, affirming that victories and titles are what settle matters on the field.
