Rodri lands at Barça, vows to chase Champions glory

Rodri touched down at El Prat on Monday, hours before his medical, declaring, “Es un sueño jugar en el Barça”. The 30‑year‑old midfielder added, “Vamos a por todo, vamos a por la Champions”, signalling his personal dream and the club’s European ambition.

Deal and medical

Compartir the news, FC Barcelona confirmed the 30‑year‑old arrived from Mánchester City and will undergo a medical on Tuesday in Barcelona. The agreement sees Barça pay about 75 million to City, with Rodri signing a contract until 30 June 2030.

Rodri’s résumé includes a Mundial win with España and the 2024 Ballon d'Or, plus four Premier League titles and a Champions League triumph during seven seasons in England.

First appearance and squad integration

The club plans a formal presentation on Wednesday at the Spotify Camp Nou, coinciding with the Joan Gamper Trophy against Al Ahly, though he will not play that match.

Barcelona splurge £65m on Rodri to chase Champions League glory

His arrival relieves the midfield of Frenkie de Jong, sidelined with a knee injury, and offers a natural partnership with Pedri under coach Hansi Flick. Rodri will earn the highest salary of the first‑team squad and is expected to assume the pivot role from day one.

In the dressing room Rodri joins eight former España teammates, including Pedri, Gavi and Lamine Yamal, all fresh from the recent Mundial triumph.

Barça breaks tradition, appoints Raphinha as captain over De Jong

The contrast between Rodri’s dream of playing for Barça and the club’s explicit aim to chase the Champions title highlights a mutual ambition that could reshape the team’s midfield dynamics.