Rodri says turning down Real Madrid for Barcelona was ‘not easy’

Barcelona midfielder Rodri Hernandez has recalled how he rejected the opportunity to join Real Madrid before moving to the Catalan club.

Real Madrid were the first side to target the midfielder while he was still playing for Manchester City. However, Barcelona eventually secured the signature of the 30-year-old star, beating their long-standing rivals to the deal.

“It was not easy to say no to Real Madrid,” Rodri said.

Barcelona officially announced the signing of the world champion on 18 August.