Barcelona's Rodri Signing is a Strategic Move to Prevent Real Madrid Strengthening, Says Valdano

Jorge Valdano believes Barcelona's interest in Rodri stems from their awareness of the significant impact he could have had at rival club Real Madrid. Rodri is reportedly close to completing a move to Camp Nou after Manchester City accepted a bid that could reach £65.3 million. He had previously been linked with Real Madrid before opting for Barcelona.

Valdano, who has held significant roles at Real Madrid, views Barcelona's move as a tactical maneuver to prevent the Spanish midfielder from bolstering their rivals' strength. He stated, "For me, Rodri is worth €35 million to Barca for what he would contribute and €40 million to Real Madrid." Valdano elaborated, "It seems to me that he is a strategic signing for Barcelona. He’s not going to influence Barcelona’s game that much, although he will put the stamp on everything that Hansi Flick proposes."

Rodri's Decision a Blow to Real Madrid's Midfield Plans

Rodri's rejection of a move to Real Madrid is seen as a significant setback for the club as they seek to replace the midfield experience lost with the departures of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric. Valdano emphasized the potential impact Rodri would have had at the Santiago Bernabeu, stating, "At Real Madrid, he would have revolutionised the team and would have improved the whole club." He further described Rodri's influence, noting, "The passes to the strikers would have reached them sooner and he would have picked them out better. Rodri is one of those players that doesn’t have much of an impact on the goal, but the whole game. That’s why he’s the best player in the world."

Rodri to Fill the Gap Left by De Jong

Rodri is set to join a Barcelona squad that includes several of his international teammates from Spain's World Cup-winning side. His arrival is particularly timely due to Frenkie de Jong's current injury. De Jong is facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines after suffering a partial tear of a meniscus cruciate ligament. Reports indicate a disagreement between De Jong and the club regarding his recovery method, with the player favoring rest and rehabilitation over surgery. With De Jong likely out for several months, Rodri will be crucial to Barcelona's aspirations of a third consecutive La Liga title. Hansi Flick's team begins their league campaign against Elche on Sunday.