“Bomb”: Rodri chooses Barcelona, Mourinho furious at Real leadership
Rodri has reportedly given his consent to move to Camp Nou after Manchester City–Real talks collapsed; Mourinho upset with Real's hierarchy.
“Bomb”: On 06.08.2026 reports from Spain placed Rodri, the best player of the 2026 World Cup and the Ballon d'Or winner, on the verge of a sensational move to Barcelona after indications that he has given the green light to a transfer to Camp Nou.
Journalist Neil Sola and other Spanish reports say Hansi Flick personally spoke with Rodri to persuade him to wear the Catalan giant's shirt, while negotiations between Manchester City and Real Madrid stalled earlier this summer.
Manchester City reportedly demanded around €75 million for the midfielder, whereas Real Madrid was prepared to offer only €50 million, plus possible add-ons, and the clubs failed to reach an agreement.
Barcelona has been presented with an opportunity to sign Rodri for roughly €60 million, a figure that would markedly increase the Catalans' chances of completing one of this summer's biggest transfers.
Mourinho's reaction
Interest at Camp Nou intensified after a serious injury to Frenkie de Jong, who is expected to be sidelined for between three and six months due to a foot problem; Barcelona believe Rodri would fit Hansi Flick's system and pair well with Pedri in the engine room.
Following these developments, José Mourinho expressed anger towards Real Madrid's leadership. He demanded explanations from the club officials responsible for the potential deal and made clear that Rodri should have been a key player in his system.
The situation — stalled talks between City and Real, a new opening for Barcelona at approximately €60 million, and Mourinho's public displeasure — will keep this transfer among the stories to watch as the summer window progresses.
Photo: Manchester City (X)
