Rodri’s Move to Barcelona: Who Gains and Who Loses

After securing back-to-back La Liga titles, Barcelona landed one of the most sought-after midfielders in the world, signing Rodri for four years. While their midfield was already strong, adding the 2026 World Cup Golden Ball winner brings a new level of quality to an already dominant team that has won five trophies over the past two seasons.

Though the transfer benefits Barcelona immensely, not everyone inside the squad will welcome Rodri's arrival with open arms.

Winners

• Pau Cubarsí: The young center back shined alongside Rodri at the 2026 World Cup, where Spain allowed just one goal across eight matches. Rodri’s defensive presence helped stop counterattacks before they reached Cubarsí, who earned the Young Player of the Tournament award at 19. At Barcelona, Cubarsí will have similar support as he navigates Flick’s high defensive line.
• Pedri: Known for setting the tempo at Barcelona, Pedri struggled somewhat during the latter part of 2025–26 and was even left out of Spain’s starting XI in the World Cup knockout stages. Exhaustion played a major role, given his heavy schedule and varying midfield partners. Rodri’s arrival offers stability and freedom to roam, potentially boosting Pedri’s game to new heights.
• Hansi Flick: The manager finally secured his ideal No. 6 after working with a young squad on a tight budget. Flick led Barcelona to multiple domestic titles but has yet to conquer the Champions League. Rodri’s experience and leadership—gained from spells at Villarreal, Atlético Madrid, Manchester City, and a World Cup win—fill the void left by veterans like Iñigo Martínez and Ronald Araújo, giving Flick a key piece to aim higher.

Losers

• Frenkie de Jong: After exiting the World Cup early with the Netherlands and suffering an MCL injury, De Jong faces the toughest challenge yet: competing with Rodri for a midfield spot while sidelined. Rodri is expected to claim the position alongside Pedri, which leaves De Jong’s future uncertain once he returns.
• Gavi: Since recovering from an ACL injury, Gavi had been regaining his place in the team and was set to continue as a starter during De Jong’s absence. Rodri’s signing now pushes Gavi down the pecking order, limiting his minutes mainly to less critical games or cup competitions despite Flick’s support.
• Real Madrid: The Spanish giants were favorites to sign Rodri, who hails from Madrid and had flirted with joining them. Instead, Barcelona swooped in, leaving Real without the deep-lying midfielder they desperately needed to replace Toni Kroos for a third consecutive season. Their only midfield addition this summer was Bernardo Silva, who may not suffice to resolve their ongoing struggles, placing their title hopes in jeopardy.