Barcelona new signing Rodri hailed as ‘Messi of Spanish football’ by Luis de la Fuente | OneFootball

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has placed Rodri in extraordinary company after describing the Barcelona midfielder as the “Messi of Spanish football”.

The comment came during an interview with Radio MARCA, where De la Fuente discussed the current state of the Spain national team and the factors behind La Roja’s position at the top of the world rankings.

Rodri’s return to La Liga was one of the main talking points. 

The midfielder completed a move to Barcelona this summer after choosing the Catalan club over the possibility of joining Real Madrid, and De la Fuente believes his presence back in Spain is a major positive for the domestic game.

“Rodri is the Messi of Spanish football,” De la Fuente said.

De la Fuente believes Rodri can adapt to Barcelona

Rodri’s move to Barcelona is a significant change after several seasons competing at the highest level in England.

There have been understandable questions about how quickly he will adapt to Hansi Flick’s system and the demands of Barcelona, particularly after his recent injury problems.

De la Fuente, on his part, has no such concerns.

Rodri has received high praise from Luis de la Fuente. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

The Spain coach believes Rodri’s quality is sufficient for him to succeed regardless of the tactical environment.

“He is the best in the world in his position,” De la Fuente added.

De la Fuente also believes Spanish football benefits when its best players compete domestically rather than having to leave the country.

“I’m delighted that these great footballers are in LaLiga, because it makes the league even greater. 

“It truly means that the best players in the world – who are our footballers – are competing here in Spanish clubs.”

Rodri has been eased into Barcelona’s plans by Flick

It is to be remembered that Rodri has not yet been thrown straight into Barcelona’s starting XI.

Flick has taken a cautious approach to his integration during the opening weeks of the campaign, with the midfielder making two La Liga appearances so far. 

Both – against Athletic Club and Rayo Vallecano – have come from the bench, giving him a combined 53 minutes on the pitch.

Rodri is yet to start for Barcelona. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

That gradual introduction is understandable given the importance Barcelona attach to having Rodri fully fit and ready for the demands of a long season.

De la Fuente also pays tribute to Messi

The conversation also turned to Lionel Messi following the Argentine’s decision to retire from international football.

De la Fuente spoke about the former Barcelona superstar with the same level of admiration, describing him as a player whose importance extends beyond ordinary sporting achievements.

“He is a legendary figure in football,” the Spain coach said.

De la Fuente believes the full scale of Messi’s career will only become clearer with time. 

His international retirement closes one of the most remarkable chapters in modern football, although the coach does not believe Messi is necessarily close to walking away from club football.

“He’ll retire when he wants to; football won’t be the one to let him go,” De la Fuente concluded.