Mourinho Discusses Rodri’s Doubts Over Potential Real Madrid Move

José Mourinho has confirmed he spoke to midfielder Rodri regarding a potential transfer to Real Madrid but indicated that Rodri expressed uncertainty about the move. This conversation prompted Mourinho to reflect on the viability of signing the World Cup winner. Mourinho, officially presented as Madrid’s new head coach on Tuesday, made these remarks during his first interview on the late-night Spanish TV show El Chiringuito.

While Mourinho noted that Real Madrid extended a significant offer to Rodri, he emphasized that the relationship between Madrid and his current club, Manchester City, is robust. “I spoke with [Rodri] a couple of times,” Mourinho said. “The club made him an important offer. Rodri had doubts, and I think what happened is that the doubts Rodri had gave me doubts.” He added that given the stature of Real Madrid, the club cannot afford to sign players who are hesitant about their commitment.

Rodri, who was anticipated to move to Madrid, was instead confirmed as a signee for Barcelona on the same day Mourinho took the helm. The Portuguese coach expressed his well wishes for the midfielder, stating, “He’s an extraordinary player. But I think Real Madrid are so big that we can’t have players who think twice. That’s the concept. But he behaved properly with us, and I wish him well.”

Mourinho’s return to the Bernabéu follows a challenging period for the club, which saw them fail to capture a major trophy for two consecutive seasons, culminating in the dismissals of coaches Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa amid tension within the squad. Commenting on his reintegration, Mourinho noted the positive attitude in the dressing room, saying, “I’ve found a dressing room with a lot of will to win. I’ve found an open dressing room, with common sense.”

As part of the team’s restructuring, Real Madrid has signed six new players: Marc Cucurella, Yan Diomande, Bernardo Silva, Ibrahima Konaté, Denzel Dumfries, and Carlos Espí. When asked about further signings before the transfer window closes, Mourinho indicated satisfaction with the current roster, stating, “No. I like the squad.” He will lead Madrid into their 2026/27 season opener against Espanyol on Saturday, as the club aims to challenge for the La Liga title following Barcelona’s back-to-back championship wins.

Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn