Barcelona midfielder Rodri believes his new team possesses the quality to conquer Europe this season.
Rodri Tells Barcelona: Master the Big Moments to Conquer Europe
The Spanish international, who won the Champions League with Manchester City before his summer move to Catalonia, shared his insights on what it takes to lift the coveted trophy.
Rodri views the Champions League title as a realistic objective for the Blaugrana.
“I definitely see it as a feasible title,” he told Mundo Deportivo.
“It’s that little step we need to take to consolidate our position and show Europe what kind of team we are.”
However, the midfielder remains grounded about Barcelona’s current status. He acknowledges the team is not the favorite and must refine several aspects of their game to become genuine contenders.
The 28-year-old emphasizes that the Champions League is not simply about being the best team it’s about mastering crucial moments. He urges Barcelona to prioritize defensive stability over offensive flair in knockout stages.
“It’s about controlling those crucial moments in a knockout tie,” Rodri explained.
“Red cards, penalties, perhaps not conceding more than necessary. All of those things determine whether you advance or not.”
The Spanish star stresses that consistency and solidity often prove more valuable than relentless attacking play. He points to past champions as evidence that defensive discipline wins Europe’s elite competition.
Rodri also highlights the importance of experience in this journey. He notes that learning from defeats is essential before achieving victory.
“I’ve always said that before you win, you have to lose and you have to learn,” he added.
“I understand that there’s a learning process in that experience, and the players learn year after year.”
Barcelona opened their Champions League campaign impressively against Feyenoord. They now face a stern test against defending champions PSG.
