Rodri chooses Barcelona over Real Madrid in one of the transfer market's biggest twists

Rodri has chosen Barcelona in one of this summer's most surprising operations, according to MARCA. The Spanish international, who seemed destined for Real Madrid since mid-June, has changed course in recent weeks when everything pointed to the Bernabéu.

Since early July, Madrid had been working confidently, believing he would be their next signing if he decided to leave Manchester City. They even reached agreement on terms with him following his brilliant World Cup performance. However, the move stalled and Barcelona stepped in forcefully. Hansi Flick personally outlined the midfielder's role in his project and the Catalan club accelerated talks at the decisive moment, swinging the balance in their favour.

This operation echoes other major plot twists between the two giants. André Gomes provides a particularly comparable case: the Portuguese midfielder appeared set for Madrid in 2016, but Luis Enrique personally insisted and Barcelona closed it for €35 million fixed plus €20 million in variables. Neymar also chose Barcelona in 2013 despite Madrid offering more money, prioritising the sporting project.