Spanish midfielder Rodri explained why he opted for FC Barcelona over the 15 times Champion League winner Real Madrid.
The Spain international revealed that he left Premier League champions Manchester City due to the sporting project of the Catalan giants, as well as Hansi Flick’s plans. “It’s been a process, rather than a decision.
First, you have to realise that your time there has come to an end and that you might want a new challenge,” he said.
The 30-year-old added that the sporting project and Barcelona’s new generation under Flick was another factor behind his decision. “I’ve always based my decisions on sporting considerations – where I believe I’ll be able to win, be happy and, above all, develop as a player. For Barcelona, I already knew they have a very competitive team, very good prospects and a new generation that has emerged under Hansi.”
Real Madrid too was an option, but choosing Barcelona was also a tough decision as he was treated very well by the three-time Ballon d’Or winner.
“In the end, I made my decision based on sporting considerations – on what sparked a bit more enthusiasm in me and on understanding where I could win and develop the most as a player,” he concluded.
Rodri praised Deco and Flick for convincing him to join Barcelona, but insisted that the Catalan giants’ interest was not driven by politics or money.
