Rodri has completed his move to Barcelona from Manchester City, beginning a new chapter with the Catalan club after a highly successful spell in England.
The Spain midfielder has signed a four-year contract with Barça until 2030, with the club paying €70 million for his transfer. His arrival adds another experienced option to Hansi Flick’s midfield as Barcelona look to compete for the major trophies this season.
Rodri made his ambitions clear during his presentation, saying he was ready for the challenge that awaits him in Barcelona.
“I’m very happy and excited about this new stage in my career. It’s a fresh challenge, a chance to experience new things and feel that excitement again,” he said.
The 30-year-old also set his sights on the Champions League and other major honours.
“I’m here to compete for everything, for big things like the Champions League,” Rodri said.
He believes Barcelona is a natural fit for his character and ambitions.
“I’ve come to a hugely ambitious club that really suits my personality, so I’ll try to help in every way I can to achieve our objectives this season,” he said.
Rodri will also find several familiar faces in the Barcelona dressing room. His Spain teammates Pedri, Dani Olmo, Gavi, Pau Cubarsí, Eric García, Joan García and Lamine Yamal are already part of the squad.
“I’m joining a dressing room that I know perfectly well, so that will help me settle in,” he said. Rodri added with a smile: “What I’m worried about are the jokes in the first few days.”
He is equally positive about working with Flick. The midfielder believes the German coach’s methods can offer him a different experience.
“I’m happy to have a coach who I think will bring a lot to my career,” Rodri said. “It’s a style that I think is somewhat different from what I’ve experienced before, so it will be enriching and help me grow as a player.”
Rodri leaves Manchester City with a Champions League title, several Premier League trophies and a Ballon d’Or among his achievements. With Spain, he has also won the European Championship and the World Cup.
