Barcelona midfielder Rodri has revealed he called Jose Mourinho after deciding to reject Real Madrid and join their Clasico rivals in August.
Spain international Rodri joined Barcelona from Manchester City in a deal worth an initial £65 million after seven years in England.
Madrid were also interested in signing the 30-year-old, who held talks with both Mourinho and Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick before making his decision.
Rodri admitted the choice was difficult, particularly given the way Madrid handled their interest.
“I had to analyse a lot of things and make a big decision between two of the best clubs in the world,” Rodri told Mundo Deportivo.
“In the end, I was guided by sporting aspects, by what excited me a little more and picking where I felt I could win and grow most as a player.
“It wasn’t easy at all. Saying no to Madrid is not easy, above all when their behaviour with me was exemplary. In the end, Deco and Hansi convinced me.”
Rodri thanks Mourinho for interest
Rodri explained that Mourinho made it clear how much he wanted him to move to the Santiago Bernabeu and outlined the role he could play in his team.
The midfielder chose not to disclose the details of their private conversation but confirmed he contacted the Portuguese coach after agreeing to join Barcelona.
“I don’t want to reveal a private conversation, but evidently he expressed his desire for me to go there and explained what he felt I would bring to the team,” Rodri said.
“He was very good with me. When I made the decision, I also called him to thank him for the interest and the way he was with me.
“He is a great coach, he has demonstrated it across many years, and Real Madrid are going to be a tough rival in the league this season.”
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