RODRI: "SAYING NO TO REAL MADRID WAS NOT EASY AT ALL"

In an exclusive interview following his signature for Barcelona, new transfer Rodri made highly striking and honest statements regarding his transfer process. Answering the question, "It was no secret that Real Madrid was also interested in you. What actually convinced you about the Barcelona project?" with complete sincerity, the successful midfielder detailed how challenging the decision-making phase was. Stating that he wanted to rest after a busy season, the Spanish star expressed the pressure he felt by saying, "I actually wanted to have a calm and peaceful holiday for 2-3 weeks, but things did not go as planned at all. I had so many details in my mind that I had to consider and evaluate carefully. I had to make such a critical and future-shaping decision between the two best clubs in the world." Touching upon the main factors that determined his choice, Rodri said, "In the end, I made my decision by focusing entirely on sporting reasons, the elements that motivate me the most on the pitch, where I can maximize my skills as a player, and where I can develop more. I must admit that this was not an easy decision at all. It is truly difficult to say no to a massive club like Real Madrid, especially since they treated me exceptionally well and respectfully throughout the transfer process. However, at the end of the day, the visionary leadership of sporting director Deco and head coach Hansi Flick completely convinced me that Barcelona was the right destination." These statements resonated widely in the football world.

IMAGE: BARCA UNIVERSAL