Rodri Says Barcelona Aren’t Champions League Favorites, Points to Key Gaps for European Success
Rodri has made a strong impression since moving from Manchester City to Barcelona, but the midfielder remains realistic about their chances in Europe. Even though the Blaugrana have dominated La Liga recently, the Spain captain feels there is still work needed before they can win the Champions League again.
Barcelona's Struggle for European Glory
Despite winning back-to-back league titles, Barcelona have yet to translate their domestic success into European triumph. The club has not won the Champions League for 12 years, which motivated their signing of the experienced 30-year-old Rodri this summer.
Rodri quickly became a key figure in the midfield, but in an interview with Mundo Deportivo, he gave a cautious view on their current place among Europe’s top teams.
Rodri Keeps Champions League Expectations Grounded
He praised the squad’s potential but was clear that they shouldn’t be seen as favorites right now. He said, “The Champions League is achievable, but I don’t think we’re favourites. Obviously, I see it as a realistic title for us. It’s that final step we need to take to establish ourselves and show Europe what kind of team we are.”
Rodri added that having talent alone does not guarantee success. “You have to understand where we’re coming from and what it takes to become champions. This team still needs to polish several things to win it,” he explained. “Players like me have come here partly for that, to help the team grow and provide something important when it comes to winning titles as unique as the Champions League.”
Handling Crucial Moments in Big Matches
Barcelona’s recent exits from Europe, such as losses against Inter and Atletico Madrid, showed defensive weaknesses and issues with discipline. Rodri stressed that understanding and managing decisive moments is vital for progressing deep into the tournament.
He noted, “I don’t think the Champions League is a tournament where the best team necessarily wins. It’s a tournament of moments, and understanding those moments is key. That’s perhaps where this team still has room to improve. But if you ask me if we have a chance, that’s why I came here.”
The midfielder emphasized the need for a pragmatic approach rather than just attacking flair. “It’s about controlling those moments that make the difference in a tie, especially in knockout rounds. Red cards, penalties, not conceding more than you should — all these decide if you go through or get eliminated.”
He suggested it might be better to be less impressive offensively but more consistent and solid defensively. “Teams that have won have shown that. We have room to improve there, and I’m sure we will.”
Learning From Past Setbacks
Looking forward, Barcelona must turn their past European disappointments into lessons for upcoming knockout games. Drawing on his own experience winning the Champions League in England, Rodri said gaining maturity is unavoidable.
He shared, “That also comes with experience. I’ve always said that before you win, you have to lose and learn. Those of us who have won big trophies know that. I’ve played in many Champions League campaigns before finally winning it.”
“There’s a learning process every year, and players get better with experience,” he added. The Blaugrana will aim to apply these insights as they push to restore their place among Europe’s elite.
