They are scarce: Rodri Hernández apologises for his words against Valencia

Valencia's defeat to Barcelona sparked a storm after Rodri Hernández, substituted at the 62’ minute by Hansi Flick for Marc Bernal, uttered harsh words about the club from the bench, captured by the programme El Día Después on television.

Flick replaces Rodri at 62’

At the sixty‑second minute, German coach Hansi Flick decided to take Spanish midfielder Rodri Hernández off the pitch, bringing on the young Marc Bernal in his place. The decision came shortly before the end of the first half.

Despite the substitution, Rodri was greeted with a long ovation from the Valencia crowd. However, the footage from the programme El Día Después showed images that sparked debate among fans.

In the video, Spain captain Rodri Hernández talks on the bench with Pau Cubarsí (Cubars) and Eric García. During the conversation, the Barcelona defender commented on Valencia's performance with very harsh phrases: “They are very weak. They are very poor. Extremely poor.”

The words were not received positively in the Valencia dressing room. According to A Punt, Rodri contacted captain José Luis Gayà to clarify the situation and apologise, explaining that he understood the mistake.

After Barcelona's comprehensive victory over Feyenoord, Rodri spoke at a press conference without waiting for questions. He said: “I apologise to all Valencia fans, the supporters, the players and anyone who has misunderstood my words.”

Rodri then clarified that the phrase was an expression of surprise, adding that anyone who had seen the video could understand it. He emphasized that he did not intend to mock or disrespect a team in difficulty.

Finally, the midfielder reiterated his respect for Valencia, stating that everyone wants the club to return to the place it deserves, describing it as one of the great clubs of the league that deserves to be a protagonist again.