Barcelona midfielder Rodri has disclosed that he held detailed talks with Real Madrid manager José Mourinho before opting to join the Spanish club’s LaLiga rivals.
Rodri said Mourinho was particularly interested in bringing him to Real Madrid and explained his football philosophy and plans for the team at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The midfielder made the revelation during an interview with COPE, recalling the discussions he had with Mourinho before making his decision.
According to Rodri, the Real Madrid manager’s ideas appealed to him and strengthened his interest in the proposed move.
“Real Madrid tried strongly. José Mourinho shared with me his enthusiasm to get me, his football idea… it attracted me a lot, he’s a top coach,” Rodri said.
Despite Mourinho’s efforts, Rodri eventually chose Barcelona after leaving Manchester City in a £65.4 million transfer.
The Spain international said his decision was based on sporting considerations, adding that he believed Barcelona offered him greater room for development.
“Then I decided to join Barça and not Madrid due to a sporting decision, here I can grow way more,” he said.
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