Rodri talks Raphinha, Pedri, Lamine, Bernal, Flick, Julian Alvarez, Ballon d’Or

Rodri talks Raphinha, Pedri, Lamine, Bernal, Flick, Julian Alvarez, Ballon d’Or Rodri has only recently entered the Barcelona dressing room, but the 30-year-old midfielder is already offering a revealing assessment of the players around him, and one of his comments will certainly catch the attention of Barça supporters. In an extensive interview with Mundo Deportivo , Rodri singled out Raphinha for the impression he has made since arriving, gave a glowing endorsement of former Manchester City teammate Julian Alvarez, a Barcelona target, and explained how Hansi Flick convinced him to join Barcelona. He also discussed his relationship with Pedri, Lamine Yamal’s Ballon d’Or prospects and the potential of teenage midfielder Marc Bernal. Rodri blown away by Raphinha’s intensity Starting off, Raphinha was the Barcelona player who surprised Rodri most, despite the midfielder already knowing the Brazilian’s reputation. “Raphinha has really surprised me. It’s not that I was surprised because I didn’t know what sort of player he is, but he’s an impressive player – the form he’s in is incredible. “I also find it funny because he’s my age and seems to have such physical stamina… We’re indeed different types of players, but anyone would understand that if he were 24 or 25, it would make sense.  “But no, he’s 30 like me and has this incredible stamina.” Raphinha’s role as a makeshift number nine under Flick has made his physical demands even more striking, and Rodri clearly appreciates the level of intensity his new teammate brings. The Spaniard was even more direct when asked about Alvarez, whom he knows from their time together at Manchester City and who was a priority target for Barcelona last summer. “I think he’s a sensational player. Obviously, of course, I’d sign Julian.  Rodri and Julian Alvarez played together at Manchester City. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images) “What’s more, I’ve been lucky enough to play alongside him for a couple of years, and I think he’s an incredible player.” Flick’s philosophy sold Rodri on Barça Rodri also revealed that Flick’s personality and hunger for improvement were central to his decision to join Barcelona . “I’d say what attracted me most was simply who he is. Among the first things he told me were his desire to improve day by day, to be a non-conformist – which fits in very well with my philosophy – to never rest on your laurels, to never think you’ve reached your limit, and to always demand more. “That’s what will lead you to success sooner or later. I believe Barcelona is in that zone of improvement needed to reach the level of excellence that can take you to winning major European titles after having done so at the national level.” That ambition also influenced how Rodri views his partnership with Pedri. He believes the Barcelona midfielder can provide a reliable passing outlet and unlock situations through his dribbling, intelligence and first-time play. “Having someone who can play the ball out, a player who links you up with the lads up front – with the confidence he has and his ability to dribble past opponents, play first-time passes and be clever – obviously gives you that solution.” Rodri believes he can complement Pedri by providing greater defensive structure. “I think I can bring him structure and solidity, so he doesn’t have to move about so much. I really emphasise to him that he’s a player who moves a lot from side to side, and that isn’t really necessary.” Rodri backs Yamal while praising Bernal There was also strong praise for Yamal, particularly given Rodri’s own Ballon d’Or experience. Rodri has backed Lamine Yamal to win the Ballon d’Or. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) “What I can tell you is that he’s a lad who’s improved tremendously; the last year and a half has been incredible, and you can definitely count him amongst the world’s best players without a doubt. “As for the Ballon d’Or, what does it measure? Individual performance, the season? “We’re all drawn to individual honours, but I think it’s impressive that a 19-year-old has managed to win what Lamine has won; that alone speaks volumes about his calibre as a player.” The Barcelona summer signing has no issue with Barcelona backing Yamal over him in the Ballon d’Or conversation. “No, I fully understand that the club is backing a player who, like Lamine, is a product of the youth academy – which means everything to them – so I’m not bothered at all.” The midfielder finished by identifying Bernal as a player with enormous potential. “He’s a brilliant lad with incredible potential. He’s a player of a very high standard – extremely high. “I think it’s great that he can play as a number 6 and a number 8; I believe he can do so in both positions.  “A player with physicality, quality, intelligence and a willingness to listen – I think he’s got it all,” he concluded.