Barcelona superstar Rodri opens up on Real Madrid summer approach: ‘They tried really hard’

Barcelona superstar Rodri opens up on Real Madrid summer approach: ‘They tried really hard’ Rodri’s last-minute switch to Barcelona from Real Madrid was by far the biggest story in Spanish football this summer. Coming on the back of a tremendous World Cup campaign, Rodri was destined to join Real Madrid, with the club themselves being sure of the transfer. However, a late change of heart saw the midfielder joining a direct rival in Barcelona. Rodri opens up on Real Madrid approach And as we approach the first international break of the summer, Rodri has opened up about Real Madrid’s approach during the summer. Speaking to COPE (h/t Fabrizio Romano ), the midfielder revealed that Real Madrid had tried really hard to sign him, adding that the club offered everything possible. Rodri has been a boon for the Barcelona midfield. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) “Real Madrid really tried hard. They wanted to sign me, we had direct talks and they came with everything they had to make it happen,” he said. Rodri added that he was grateful for the interest but decided not to spill further details, especially when asked about a meeting with Florentino Perez. “They made my decision difficult. I am grateful. Speaking with Florentino Pérez too? I am not gonna say that,” he added. Barcelona’s double boost Rodri’s eventual move to Barcelona has acted as a double boost for the Catalans and a double whammy for Real Madrid. First and foremost, the Spaniard has added real experience and leadership in the Barcelona midfield, forming a great partnership with Pedri in the process. Real Madrid will be ruing missing out on Rodri. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) The results have been quite evident, with the Catalans winning all their matches so far this season. On the other hand, Real Madrid missing out on Rodri has created a massive void in the club’s midfield unit, which remains a key weak point for Jose Mourinho’s team. Indeed, Real Madrid have struggled to find the x-factor in midfield so far, with their existing options such as Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni and Eduardo Camavinga failing to offer that calmness and edge in the middle of the park. Real Madrid’s problems were compounded further following Valverde’s recent injury , which will keep him on the sidelines for a few weeks. Barcelona will hope Rodri can avoid any injuries, with a dozen and a half of their players expected to participate in the first international break of the season.