Rodri Hernández: 'Barcelona Was My First Option'

In a move that shook European football, Spanish international and reigning Ballon d'Or winner Rodri Hernández was officially presented as a new FC Barcelona player on August 18, 2026. The 30-year-old midfielder signed a contract running through June 30, 2030, after Barcelona paid €76.5 million (€60 million fixed plus variables) to Manchester City, according to sources close to the negotiation.

Why Not Real Madrid?

At his press conference, Rodri was emphatic about his choice. "It was my first option, and I made that clear to Joan Laporta and the club's leadership," he stated. The midfielder, who had been heavily linked with Real Madrid, explained: "Barcelona is a great club, a reference for its playing philosophy and the values it represents. I made the decision with my family, and I believe it's the best. I'll keep the specific reasons to myself, but they are purely sporting ones."

His words put an end to weeks of speculation, as many expected the Spanish star to join Los Blancos. Instead, Rodri opted for the Catalan side, where he will reunite with several teammates from Spain's 2026 World Cup-winning squad, including Pedri, Gavi, Eric García, Pau Cubarsí, Joan García, and Lamine Yamal.

A Grateful Farewell to Manchester City

Rodri took time to thank the English club, where he spent five successful seasons. "They gave me everything, and I will always be grateful," he said. His numbers at City are impressive: 298 appearances, 28 goals, and 32 assists, with major trophies including four Premier League titles and the 2023 Champions League, where he scored the winning goal in the final.

Before his time in England, Rodri played for Atlético Madrid and Villarreal in Spain, racking up 131 matches, 5 goals, and 7 assists. Now he returns to La Liga, but in a different shirt.

The Julián Álvarez Connection

Rodri also addressed the ongoing saga of his former City teammate, Julián Álvarez. The Argentine striker has publicly expressed his desire to join Barcelona, and Rodri didn't hold back in his praise: "Julián is a great footballer, one of the best strikers out there. I can only say that." He added that "Deco and the club's leadership are always looking to improve the squad."

The plot thickened when Álvarez 'liked' Manchester City's farewell video for Rodri on social media—a small gesture that didn't go unnoticed, fueling speculation that the Argentine is still pushing for a move to Barcelona. Álvarez currently plays for Atlético Madrid, but his dream of wearing the Blaugrana shirt has been no secret.

A Trophy Cabinet Like No Other

With such a decorated career, Rodri arrives at Barcelona to anchor the midfield and lead a new era under the guidance of coach Hansi Flick. The club's fans are already dreaming of more silverware, and with Rodri's winning mentality, that dream might just become reality.

All information based on official sources and press conferences as of August 18, 2026.