Barcelona summer signing establishes himself as a captain without the armband

Barcelona summer signing establishes himself as a captain without the armband It hasn’t been a great week for Barcelona, having suffered successive defeats to PSG and Real Madrid, during which the role of Rodri has also been questioned. The Spanish international wasn’t able to make an impact during the Clasico , prompting many Barcelona fans to call for the introduction of Frenkie de Jong more often. However, in reality, Rodri has played a critical role in Barcelona setup, particularly when it comes to leading an otherwise inexperienced team. A captain without the armband As reported by MARCA , Rodri has quickly established himself as one of the most influential voices in the Barcelona dressing room, even without wearing the captain’s armband. Rodri has been integral to Barcelona’s midfield. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) Hansi Flick had publicly stressed last season that his squad needed leaders capable of stepping up in difficult moments. While Raphinha has taken on much of that burden as captain, Rodri has emerged as another natural figurehead, his personality and experience quickly earning him significant standing among the group. The clearest example came this week. In the wake of the back-to-back defeats to Real Madrid and PSG, Rodri joined Raphinha and the other captains in organising a team lunch . It was an important gesture for a team that desperately requires some motivation. More than a tactical signing In many ways, Barcelona’s decision to sign Rodri was always going to be more than a tactical one. On paper, Barcelona looked well stocked in central midfield last summer. Yet when the chance to sign Rodri materialised, the club did not hesitate. Barcelona are lucky to have Rodri in their ranks. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images) There were two main reasons. Firstly, they had the opportunity to add one of the best midfielders in the world. Secondly, they identified a player capable of injecting experience, character and leadership into a squad brimming with young talent. In a dressing room that leans heavily on youth, Rodri’s track record and temperament offered the kind of guidance such players need, both when results are flowing and when they are not. On the evidence so far, he has embraced that responsibility seamlessly. His standing with supporters is equally strong. Handed a rousing ovation on his very first appearance at the Joan Gamper Trophy, Rodri has since become an indispensable fixture in Flick’s starting eleven. One underwhelming Clasico , therefore, does little to diminish what has already been a hugely significant presence both on and off the pitch.