Rodri Says Barcelona Aren't Champions League Favorites, Points to Key Gaps for European Success
Since joining Barcelona from Manchester City, Rodri has quickly become a vital part of the midfield. Yet, the Spain captain keeps expectations in check regarding their chances of winning the Champions League. Despite recent dominance in La Liga, he believes significant improvements are still needed before the team can claim European glory again.
Barcelona’s Struggle to Capture European Glory
Even after winning consecutive La Liga titles, Barcelona has found it difficult to match that success on the continental stage. The club has not lifted the Champions League trophy for 12 years, a fact that influenced their decision to bring in the experienced 30-year-old Rodri during the summer transfer window.
The midfielder settled in immediately and became central to the squad’s efforts. However, in a recent interview with Mundo Deportivo, Rodri offered a realistic view of where the team stands among Europe’s best.
Rodri’s Honest Take on Barcelona’s Chances
"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."
He emphasized that having talent alone doesn’t guarantee continental titles. "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," Rodri said. He added that players like himself joined partly to help the team develop those crucial qualities required to succeed in such a prestigious competition.
Focus on Tactical Discipline and Key Moments
Barcelona’s recent exits from the Champions League were often due to defensive weaknesses and disciplinary mistakes, especially in matches against Inter Milan and Atletico Madrid. Rodri believes learning to handle these critical moments is vital.
"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 crucial. That’s perhaps the area where this team still has room to improve. But if you ask me whether we have a chance, that’s why I came here."
Rodri also stressed the importance of pragmatism. "It’s about controlling those moments that make the difference in a tie, especially in the knockout rounds. Red cards, penalties, maybe conceding fewer goals — all of those affect whether you advance or get eliminated." He suggested that being solid and consistent might matter more than purely attacking flair.
Learning From Experience to Break the Drought
Looking forward, Rodri thinks Barcelona must turn past European disappointments into lessons to guide them through this season’s knockout stages. Having endured many campaigns before finally winning the Champions League himself, he understands the process well.
"Before you win, you have to lose and learn. Those of us who have won big trophies know that. I’ve been in numerous Champions League campaigns before finally lifting the trophy."
He concluded that gaining experience year after year is part of growth, and the team is ready to use that hard-earned knowledge as they aim to restore their place among Europe’s elite.
- Date: 16 Sept 2026
- Match: Barcelona vs Racing Santander
- Time: 22:30
