Barcelona manager Hansi Flick hails Rodri signing – “He’s the best number 6 in the world” | OneFootball

On Tuesday, Barcelona finalised the long-awaited signing of Manchester City and Spain midfielder Rodri. The 30-year-old has penned a four-year contract at the Spotify Camp Nou, thus completing one of the moves for the summer transfer window.

Originally, the plan had not been to sign a new midfielder this summer, but after Frenkie de Jong’s serious knee injury was confirmed, the decision was made to enter the market. Rodri was quickly identified as a leading target, and after receiving Hansi Flick’s sign-off, sporting director Deco proceeded – and ultimately managed to get his man.

Upon Rodri’s signing being made official, Flick gave his thoughts to Barcelona’s official media channels. As per MD, he expressed a lot of pleasure at the move, believing that the 2024 Ballon d’Or will be a top addition to his squad.

“It was a great opportunity for us to achieve it, so we were all 100% convinced because he is a fantastic player. He’s a fantastic player who gives every team the special things and for me it’s great to have him here. I think he’s maybe the best number 6 (in the world). He can control the game, but also in defence he helps. He can win aerial duels, which for us is very important and of course increase the level of each player.”

Rodri poised to join Barcelona training in coming days

Rodri will not be available for Wednesday’s Joan Gamper Trophy clash against Al Ahly, given that he has not trained since leading Spain to 2026 World Cup glory in July. He underwent minor surgery in the days after that success in North America, but despite this, the projection is for him to be involved in the club’s upcoming sessions alongside his new teammates, with a view to possibly being named in the squad for this weekend’s La Liga opener against Elche.