Barcelona were once on the verge of signing Rodrygo, a transfer that could have changed the trajectory of his career completely. In a recent interview with AS, the Real Madrid forward confessed that ...
Barcelona were once on the verge of signing Rodrygo, a transfer that could have changed the trajectory of his career completely.
In a recent interview with AS, the Real Madrid forward confessed that he had already agreed to join the Catalan club before a late call from Los Blancos altered everything.
“Before signing for Madrid, everything was already done and I had signed for Barça. It’s true. But my father told me that Madrid had called us and that I had to choose.
“It was very easy for me. I knew what I wanted and what my dream was. I didn’t hesitate. And here I am,” Rodrygo revealed.
The Brazilian forward, who was emerging as one of the brightest prospects at Santos, had caught Barcelona’s attention early.
The Blaugrana had a strong record of recruiting talented youngsters from South America, and Rodrygo seemed ready to follow that same path.
But Real Madrid’s intervention changed the outcome, robbing Barça of a player who had already expressed admiration for the club.
“I was at Santos and I started playing well. Barça came after me and I’ve always said that it’s a great club and that I have a lot of respect for them.
“But Madrid was my dream and my decision was easy to make. I couldn’t wait any longer for Madrid and when the time came, we did what we had to do,” he explained.
Barcelona’s dominance fresh in Rodrygo’s mind
Rodrygo was close to signing for Barcelona. (Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images)
As the October derby approaches, Rodrygo is aware of the challenge that awaits Real Madrid.
Barcelona completely outclassed Los Blancos last season, winning both league matches and lifting the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup at their expense.
Despite his confidence, Rodrygo’s tone carried a hint of respect for the Catalan side’s resurgence under their new project.
“It’s best to forget about last season. We know we didn’t perform well, especially in the derbies. We didn’t feel comfortable against them.
“It’s true that last year it was the other way around and we won all four derbies, but we have to admit that they are better now and have a better team, with much more confidence in themselves.
“But we also have a great team. It’s going to be a tough game, but we’re playing at the Bernabeu in front of our fans, and we have to show what we’re made of.
“We have to plan everything well to beat them no matter what. We’re at home,” he says.
Rodrygo’s admission serves as a subtle acknowledgment of Barcelona’s current superiority.
While Real Madrid are determined to turn the tables, even their own players can not deny that Barça have become a stronger, more confident force.
Category: General Sports
