Rodri: “The Champions League is possible, but I don’t
By OnzeActu · · 5 min read
Rodrigo Hernández, flagship arrival of the summer transfer window at FC Barcelona, believes that conquering the Champions League remains within the club's reach, while refusing to make it the favorite. Ex-Manchester City player, he calls for realism and work to erase the identified shortcomings.
Why it matters
Rodri's arrival at FC Barcelona represents a potential turning point for the Catalan club, which aspires to regain its status as a dominant force in the Champions League. His experience gained at Manchester City, where he won the title, could prove crucial in guiding his teammates in the decisive moments of the European competition. Rodri's statement about the need to correct the team's flaws highlights the importance of a realistic approach in the quest for success.
Context
Rodri, 30, is a key player in midfield, bringing valuable experience to FC Barcelona. Trained in Madrid, he proved himself at Manchester City, where he was a vital part of their Champions League success. His rapid integration into the Barcelona locker room testifies to his professionalism and his potential to strengthen the team in major European evenings.
Key points
- Rodri: “The Champions League is possible, but I don’t.
- Rodrigo Hernández, flagship arrival of the summer transfer window at FC Barcelona, believes that winning the Champions League remains within the club's reach, while refusing to make it the favorite.
- Rodri: "The Champions are possible but we do not believe that they are favorites."
In this interview, Rodri speaks frankly about Barça's main objective for the season: the Champions League. With his experience on the European scene, the former Manchester City player recognizes that the Catalan club has arguments to aim for the highest continental competition. “The Champions League is possible, but I don’t think we are the favorites,” he confides, remaining both ambitious and measured.
The Madrid environment also reminds us of the need for patient and methodical work. He insists that the team must still “pulir varios defectos” — that is, correct several inadequacies — if it does not want to repeat the mistakes that could have been costly in the past. Without detailing specific tactical points in the short extract published, Rodri highlights realism and caution: the road to the European coronation requires collective improvement and consistency throughout the season.
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The profile of Rodri, a player of control and experience in the middle, brings Barça an additional option to strengthen the balance of the team in big European evenings. His arrival this summer also fueled memories of past interests: Mundo Deportivo recalls that Rodri had aroused desire before, notably at Real Madrid under the Mourinho era, before establishing himself at Manchester City.
For FC Barcelona, the Madrid native's statement is a double message: encouragement - because the C1 "is possible" - and warning - because everything remains to be accomplished. Twelve years after a previous victorious campaign mentioned in the interview, the Blaugrana club has a history and a quality of squad which places it among the candidates, but Rodri tempers the enthusiasm by refusing to present his team as the obvious favorite.
The full version of Rodri's interview can be found on the Mundo Deportivo website and in their paper edition. In the meantime, his words offer a clear guideline for Barca: aim high, but work hard to turn possibilities into concrete results on the European stage.
The rest
FC Barcelona will have to work on its shortcomings identified by Rodri to hope to compete with the best clubs in the Champions League this season. With a busy schedule and crucial matches coming up, Rodri's performances will be closely scrutinized to see how he can influence Barca's play. Fans will hope that the team can rely on their new midfielder to reach the heights of European football during the 2026 transfer window.
Frequently asked questions
What did Rodri say about FC Barcelona's chances in the Champions League?
Rodri said that the Champions League is possible for FC Barcelona, but he does not see them as favorites.
Who confirmed that Rodri is FC Barcelona's big signing?
The information was reported by Mundo Deportivo.
Why does Rodri think FC Barcelona need to work on their flaws?
Rodri insists on the need to correct several shortcomings to avoid repeating the mistakes of the past.
What changes does Rodri bring to FC Barcelona?
Rodri brings experience and control
in midfield, strengthening the balance of the team for the big European evenings.
What is the main objective of FC Barcelona this season according to Rodri?
FC Barcelona's main goal this season is to win the Champions League.