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As Barcelona reveled in their commanding 5–1 victory over Feyenoord in the Champions League on Wednesday, new recruit Rodri was busy issuing an apology to Valencia for labeling the struggling Spanish club "weak" over the weekend.
The Catalan side had little trouble claiming all three points at the Mestalla on Sunday. Hansi Flick's squad put five goals past Valencia, who sit at the foot of the La Liga table with just one point from four games.
Rodri made his first start in a Blaugrana jersey in the fixture, featuring for 62 minutes before being substituted with his side leading 3–0. Cameras then caught the Spain international chatting with teammates Pau Cubarsí and Raphinha on the bench, apparently saying, "They're really weak. They haven't crossed the halfway line."
Valencia supporters took offense to the remarks, particularly given that Rodri's former Spain teammate José Gayà serves as the club's captain. The ex-Manchester City midfielder then seized the moment to publicly apologize following Barcelona's Champions League victory just days later.
"I apologized to my friend and colleague José Gayà and to the whole squad too. I also want to make clear that it was simply an expression of surprise—anyone watching the video can see that," Rodri stated.
"At no point did I intend to mock anyone or trivialize a difficult period for a club. Quite the contrary; we all want Valencia to return to where they belong in the league. They are one of the finest clubs in the competition. That was all I meant to say.
"I would also point out that it was a private conversation; I think we can all take something from this, as things do get taken out of context. But I meant no disrespect whatsoever. My apologies to Valencia."
Rodri Enjoying Dream Start at Barcelona
The minor controversy has been the only stumble in an otherwise outstanding beginning to Rodri's spell with the reigning Spanish champions. The 30-year-old, who signed a four-year contract with Barcelona this summer, has featured in four matches for his new side—all of which have been comfortable victories.
The Catalans lead the La Liga table with a flawless 12 points, already three points clear of fierce rivals Real Madrid. Flick's men have also netted an impressive 17 goals across those four matches, despite lacking a natural striker up front.
Barcelona carried their superb domestic form into the Champions League, dismantling Feyenoord to open their league phase campaign. Rodri played 83 minutes in the contest, looking entirely at ease alongside fellow World Cup winner Pedri in Flick's midfield.
The 2024 Ballon d'Or winner misplaced just three of his 85 passes, created two chances, and covered virtually every inch of the pitch. Any doubts aside, Rodri is helping Barcelona demonstrate they possess the finest midfield in Spain; now they simply need to go all the way in Europe.
Where Rodri Needs to Help Barcelona the Most
Much like the previous two seasons, Barcelona will find the majority of their La Liga fixtures relatively comfortable. They are back-to-back La Liga champions for good reason, and are simply on a different level from almost every other side in Spain.
The club's true test lies in Europe. The Catalans are desperate to claim their first Champions League crown since 2014–15. They have not even reached a final since that triumphant campaign, and their primary goal remains achieving glory on the European stage.
Many of Barcelona's struggles in Europe's top club competition have been rooted in their fragile defense. Flick's side failed to keep a single clean sheet in the Champions League last season and were eliminated in the quarterfinals by Atlético Madrid as a result.
The team picked up where they left off in their league phase opener, unable to shut out a lesser opponent despite controlling the match. It matters little in such one-sided games, but it will become a significant issue once Barcelona encounter stronger opposition.
Rodri's role in front of Barcelona's defensive line could prove crucial in keeping opponents at bay and finally reaching a Champions League final. Spain conceded just one goal throughout the entire World Cup, and Flick will be eager to replicate similar defensive solidity through his new signing and Cubarsí at the back.