Finally! Barcelona's transfer of the summer gets his long-awaited place in the starting XI
The wait is over for Barcelona fans — Rodri is finally getting his chance from the opening whistle.
Details: Rodri has been named in Barcelona's starting lineup for the LaLiga clash against Valencia at Mestalla. It is a major milestone for the Spanish midfielder following his blockbuster summer move to Catalonia, with Hansi Flick finally trusting his new midfield general from the first minute in a league match.
Rodri arrived at Barcelona from Manchester City during the summer window and was immediately viewed as one of the club's headline additions. However, the midfielder was not rushed into a permanent starting role as the coaching staff carefully managed his fitness and workload.
His inclusion from the opening whistle against Valencia therefore represents another important step in his integration into Flick's team. Barcelona enter the fourth round of LaLiga with a perfect record after winning their opening three matches and scoring 12 goals in the process.
The Catalans face Valencia at Mestalla before quickly switching their attention to the Champions League, where Feyenoord will visit the Spotify Camp Nou on September 9. That demanding schedule gives Flick another reason to expand his midfield options and bring Rodri fully into the rotation.
It is worth noting that Rodri joined Barcelona after seven seasons with Manchester City. During his spell in England, the Spaniard made 298 appearances in all competitions and won the Ballon d'Or in 2024.
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Steven Perez
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