José Mourinho: Real Madrid cannot sign players who hesitate after Rodri chooses Barça | OneFootball

José Mourinho has returned to the Real Madrid dugout and discussed missing out on Rodri to Barcelona.

“If you ask me, the window is over. I really like my squad. Rodri is not missing, we have solutions, we have quality. And I also like to think I can improve the players,” said Mourinho, speaking to El Chiringuito on Tuesday night.

Madrid have finished runners-up to Barcelona in each of the past two La Liga seasons. They have spent more than 220 million euros this summer, yet a defensive midfielder could still be needed alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni. Madrid moved early for Rodri during the World Cup before Barcelona entered the race.

Rodri won the 2024 Ballon d'Or and was named best player of the 2026 World Cup after Spain’s triumph.

“I spoke with him several times. Real Madrid made him a very good offer. But Rodri had doubts, he hesitated, his doubts made me doubt. He is an extraordinary player and was very correct with us, but Real Madrid cannot sign players who hesitate.”

“Victories are won on the pitch, they are points, titles, that is where the wins are.” Mourinho, 63, is back on the Madrid bench 13 years after his first spell ended.

Source: L'Équipe

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