Aug 19, 2026 4:26 AM
Jose Mourinho says Real Madrid "doesn't need Rodri" after the Spaniard chose FC Barcelona over them in the summer transfer.
Jose Mourinho appears to have started his work at Real Madrid on the right foot, but he was not officially presented to the media until Tuesday this week.
The most anticipated signing of the summer arrived happier than the first time he had the opportunity to coach the Merengue team, as he assured that this time he feels much more important to the club.
After having his presentation behind closed doors, Jose Mourinho, 63, gave an interview to El Chiringuito, where he was asked his opinion on the 'Rodri' matter.
The relationship between Rodrigo Hernandez and Real Madrid was doubtful from the beginning; there seemed to be a constant back-and-forth on both sides until, finally, last Sunday, journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that the former Manchester City player had chosen to join FC Barcelona.
Speaking calmly, the Portuguese assured that, as far as he knows, there are no more signings to be made at Real Madrid, as he likes the team they have so far, adding that they honestly do not need Rodri.
"I don't know if there will be more signings, the market is open, but we have the squad closed. I like it a lot. I don't need Rodri, we have solutions. We have quality and players to improve and be different. We have a group already made."
Mourinho also revealed that Real Madrid spoke twice with Rodri; in fact, they made a very large offer, but the defensive midfielder was not very convinced.
"Rodri has had doubts. What I think has happened, speaking about myself, is that the doubts that Rodri had created doubts in me. He is an extraordinary player, but Real Madrid is of a dimension that cannot have players who think twice about it."
Rodri's desire to wear the white shirt seemed to be latent for some time, but for some reason, the occasion did not align even when Real Madrid renewed its interest in him.
For some experts, losing this signing could weigh on the Merengue team. Rodri would have provided balance to the other players, but we will no longer be able to find out.
The Real Madrid coach also ended the conversation by wishing the Spanish player well, clarifying that he has nothing negative to say about him, but making it clear that victories will be reflected on the field of play.
For now, Mourinho is focused on Real Madrid's next game, which is scheduled for Saturday, August 22, against RCD Espanyol.
1
Comments
Powered by RoundtableBuilt on infrastructure designed for real-time media. Learn more at RTB.io.Ā© Roundtable 2026. By using this site you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy


