On the evening of 18/8, Madrid time, after a busy day of work, Barca completed Rodri's signing on a contract valid until summer 2030. The Catalan club paid 88,5 million USD, including 69,4 million USD upfront and over 12,7 million USD in add-ons, to recruit the Spanish midfielder from Man City.

Minutes later, Rodri was introduced to the media. The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner admitted he had received other offers, especially from Real Madrid, but always wanted to join Camp Nou.

"Barca has always been my global role model, because of how the club views football and the values it pursues," Rodri said on his unveiling day. "It's true I had several other offers, but Barca was the first choice and I told the board that. My decisions are always linked to sporting challenges."

Rodri was unveiled at Barca on 18/8/2026. Photo: FC Barcelona

The 30-year-old midfielder also mentioned Barca winning La Liga for the past two consecutive seasons and believes the team is just one step away from the Champions League title. "I don't just look at the present but also consider future development potential." However, Rodri did not confirm whether Barca could boast the best midfield in the world.

Rodri met his new teammates in the morning, when he arrived for his medical check at Barca's training center. The 30-year-old midfielder said he received a warm welcome and noted he had played with many Barca players at the 2026 World Cup for nearly two months, including Joan Garcia, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Gavi, Dani Olmo, Pedri, and Lamine Yamal.

The Spanish midfielder also praised coach Hansi Flick: "I spoke with him and clearly felt his excitement. I am very motivated to work with Hansi because I like the idea of brave play. He is a very direct coach. I am here to contribute."

Rodri signed a contract until 2030. Photo: FC Barcelona

Rodri had often expressed admiration for Sergio Busquets, the former midfielder who will work in the Barca B coaching staff for the 2026-2027 season while studying for his coaching license. Now, Rodri hopes to become a role model for Marc Bernal, just as Busquets was for him.

"I understand the comparison with Busquets because of the position and playing style. It's a privilege. We are different but also share similarities. I always admired him and tried to learn from Busquets," Rodri stated. "Bernal has made incredible progress and has recovered very well from injury. I hope I can help him as much as possible."

After finalizing Rodri's deal, Barca will focus on strengthening their attack. The club's biggest target this summer is forward Julian Alvarez. However, Rodri did not want to discuss this transfer in depth and only commented that Alvarez is one of the best forwards in the world.

Barca released a video announcing Rodri. Video: X / FC Barcelona

Rodri had a busy 24 hours since arriving in Barca on 17/8. The Spanish midfielder clearly felt the fans' excitement. After signing the contract, Rodri stopped to interact with fans waiting outside Camp Nou. He also met supporters at the restaurant where he dined with Barca's board, sporting director Deco, and former midfielder Bojan Krkic.

On his unveiling day, Rodri did not forget to mention Man City, the team he played for the past seven years. "I am very happy to be here," he expressed. "This is a special day, opening an important new chapter in my career. It was a difficult decision. First, leaving Man City. The club gave me everything; I was incredibly happy there and will always be grateful."

Rodri and Barca will begin the new season with a match against Elche in the first round of La Liga on 23/8.

Hong Duy (according to ESPN, Marca)