Why do we need Rodri? Barcelona star puzzled by high-profile club transfer

Not everyone in the Barcelona dressing room is thrilled about the imminent arrival of the World Cup winner.

Details: According to exclusive information from insider account The Touchline, Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong was left baffled by the club’s decision to sign Rodri. The Dutchman was taken aback by the transfer, believing that once he returns from injury, his place in the starting lineup and his current role in the team could be at risk.

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For context, de Jong is currently recovering from a torn medial collateral ligament in his right knee, an injury he picked up at the World Cup while playing for the Netherlands. Surgery was not required, but the midfielder will miss the start of the 2026/27 season. Barcelona will kick off their La Liga title defense away at Elche on August 23.

It was precisely de Jong’s injury that spurred the Catalans into action on the transfer market: the deal to bring Rodri from Manchester City is now in its final stages. The transfer fee is reported to be around €50 million, and the 30-year-old Spaniard is set to sign a four-year contract worth €30 million per season. The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner and 2026 World Cup MVP has chosen Barcelona over interest from Real Madrid.

Interestingly, Rodri himself is also sidelined at the moment: following the World Cup, he underwent a minor back operation and won’t return to the pitch until the end of August. Transfermarkt currently values the Spanish midfielder at €55 million.

Reminder: "Out of respect for Real" – Rodri's agent comments on his client's decision in favor of Barcelona.