Mourinho Reveals Real Madrid Rejected Rodri Over Transfer Doubts 2026

Mourinho has revealed that Real Madrid rejected Rodri due to his transfer doubts, a decision that shaped the midfielder's move to Barcelona. The Portuguese manager, in his second stint at the Santiago Bernabéu, confirmed that the club made an offer to the Spanish international but ultimately pulled back because of the player's hesitation. This revelation comes on the same day Rodri was presented at Barcelona after completing a €75m (£65.4m) move from Manchester City.

Mourinho's Account of the Rodri Negotiation

Speaking to El Chiringuito, Mourinho detailed the behind-the-scenes discussions. "I spoke to him a couple of times and Real Madrid made him a very good offer," he said. "Without negotiating with City, the club were in contact with Rodri and made him an important offer. Rodrigo had doubts, he doubted. And his doubts created doubts in me."

Mourinho emphasized that Real Madrid's stature demands immediate commitment. "He is an extraordinary player and he behaved in the right way with us. I have nothing bad to say. But Real Madrid are so big that you can’t have players who have to think twice. You get in touch with a player and the player says: 'When do I go?' That’s how it works."

Rodri's Options and Final Choice

Rodri had three offers to leave City after the World Cup: from Paris Saint-Germain, Real Madrid, and Barcelona. Having ruled out PSG because he wanted to return to Spain, the 30-year-old eventually chose Barcelona, where he will join eight of his teammates from the World Cup squad. When asked if the move was a victory for Barcelona over their great rivals, Mourinho replied, "Victories are on the pitch, trophies."

Real Madrid have not signed an alternative midfielder, despite their pursuit of Rodri and that being a clear hole in a team that have failed to win a major trophy in the past two seasons. Mourinho feels sure, however, that he does not need to bring in any further players. "I am not saying that there will not be any more signings because the market is still open, but if you ask me directly whether the squad is complete, for me yes it is," said the 63-year-old. "It’s complete, closed."

Comparison of Offers for Rodri

Key Takeaways from the Transfer Saga

• Mourinho confirmed Real Madrid made an offer to Rodri but withdrew due to the player's hesitation.
• Rodri prioritized a return to Spain, choosing Barcelona over PSG and Real Madrid.
• Real Madrid have not signed a replacement midfielder, leaving a gap in their squad.
• Mourinho insists the current squad is complete and closed.

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