'His doubts created doubts' - Jose Mourinho reveals why Real Madrid ended pursuit of new Barcelona signing Rodri
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho explains that the club withdrew from signing Rodri because the player's hesitation during negotiations created uncertainty. Despite Rodri's status as a Ballon d'Or winner, Mourinho stated that Madrid requires players who are fully committed from the start.
Why it matters
This highlights the high-stakes nature of elite football transfers and the importance of psychological fit in top-tier sports management.
Jose Mourinho has revealed the exact reason why Real Madrid pulled out of the race to sign Rodri this summer. The Ballon d'Or winner recently completed a blockbuster move to arch-rivals Barcelona, but the Portuguese manager insists he has absolutely no regrets over missing out.
Rodri has officially completed a blockbuster summer transfer to Barcelona . The 2025 Ballon d'Or winner was unveiled in Catalonia on Tuesday, putting pen to paper on a four-year contract running until June 2030.
Barcelona reached a full agreement with City for a guaranteed base fee of €60 million. However, performance-based add-ons could see the total valuation rise to a staggering €76.5m.
The Spanish international had pushed to leave the Etihad Stadium after a wildly successful stint. Los Blancos initially pushed hardest to pull off the high-profile transfer, with agent Pablo Barquero confirming they made an irresistible offer, before the midfielder chose their arch-rivals.
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