Rodri believes Barcelona must pair their attacking quality with greater control and defensive discipline if they are to challenge for the Champions League this season.

The Spain captain joined Barcelona from Manchester City in August on a four-year contract, returning to La Liga after seven trophy-filled years in England. Barcelona paid a fee reported to be around £65 million for the 30-year-old midfielder, who was named the best player at the 2026 World Cup after helping Spain lift the trophy.

Speaking about Barcelona’s European ambitions, Rodri stressed that Champions League success is often determined by how teams respond during decisive moments rather than by overall dominance alone.

“Players like myself were bought for this purpose,” Rodri said. “I think the Champions League is not necessarily for the best team, but a tournament of moments. In the Champions League, you have to control the moments in the knockouts. Red cards, penalties, conceding goals—these are the things that define whether you qualify or not.”

Rodri said Barcelona have the talent to compete with Europe’s leading sides but acknowledged that the squad remains a work in progress. He added that he joined the club to bring experience, leadership and a level of control that can help Barcelona manage the most demanding matches.

The midfielder’s arrival is intended to strengthen Barcelona’s balance in possession and without the ball. His ability to shield the defence, dictate tempo and recognise dangerous moments could be central to the club’s attempt to convert domestic strength into a sustained European challenge.

Barcelona begin the Champions League campaign seeking to improve on recent continental disappointments. For Rodri, the formula is clear: retain the club’s attacking identity, but match it with composure, organisation and sharper decision-making when knockout ties are on the line.