Barcelona announce Rodrigo Hernández Cascante on deal until 2030 | OneFootball

Barcelona said in a statement that they have signed Rodrigo Hernández Cascante on a contract running until 2030. The club praised his tactical intelligence, ball recovery, composure and passing, as well as leadership and consistency.

The 30-year-old Spain captain, MVP of the World Cup, chose Barcelona after rejecting Real Madrid's proposal. A preliminary agreement emerged on Sunday and the move was confirmed on Tuesday.

The fee is 60 million euros plus 16 in add-ons, with 10 tied to demanding appearance targets and six to easier conditions. It was Barcelona's third offer, between an initial 50 and City's 80, with the midfielder having a year left and seeking a move.

Frenkie de Jong's long-term injury prompted Hansi Flick to seek an experienced holding midfielder. With Rodri's Madrid move stalling, sporting director Deco met him for around three hours and Flick phoned to outline his role, while team-mates including Lamine Yamal encouraged him.

Barcelona's style and the presence of several Spain internationals weighed in his decision. After landing, he said he wants to win the Champions League with Barcelona and described the transfer as a dream.

He played for Atlético and Villarreal before joining City in 2019, scoring the decisive goal in the 2023 Champions League final. He will join a midfield including Pedri, Olmo, Fermín, Bernal, Gavi and De Jong.

With Spain he won Euro 2024 and the 2026 World Cup, and was recognised with the Ballon d'Or at both tournaments.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo

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