Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has played down the significance of the club’s failure to sign Spain international Rodri, insisting the Manchester City midfielder was never considered a necessity for his squad.
Rodri had been strongly linked with a move to the Spanish giants during the summer transfer window, with reports suggesting Madrid viewed the 30-year-old as a potential addition to strengthen their midfield.
However, the Spain captain ultimately opted for a move to Real Madrid’s fierce rivals Barcelona, bringing an end to speculation over his future.
Speaking ahead of Real Madrid’s LaLiga season opener against Espanyol, Mourinho said the club’s decision not to sign Rodri was not a major setback because he believes his squad already possesses several players capable of operating in the midfielder’s position.
“Rodri’s signing was not a necessity,” Mourinho said.
“We don’t have any deficit; it was more like a cherry on top of the cake.”
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The Portuguese manager pointed to several options within his squad who can perform a similar role, including Aurelien Tchouameni, Eduardo Camavinga and Federico Valverde.
Mourinho also suggested that Bernardo and teenage midfielder Arda Guler could eventually be deployed in the position if required.
“We have Tchouameni, Camavinga, Valverde, Bernardo, Arda who can also end up playing there,” he added.
Rodri’s decision to join Barcelona nevertheless represents a significant development in the Spanish transfer market, given his status as one of Europe’s leading defensive midfielders.
The midfielder played a key role during his time at Manchester City, helping the club to multiple domestic trophies and the Champions League title before his move to Spain.
His arrival at Barcelona is expected to strengthen their midfield options and add further intensity to the rivalry between the two Spanish giants.
For Madrid, Mourinho’s comments suggest the club remains confident in its existing midfield depth and does not regard Rodri’s departure from their list of targets as a major weakness.
With the new LaLiga campaign beginning, Mourinho will now look to Tchouameni, Camavinga, Valverde and other midfield options to provide the balance and control he believes his team