Rodri Hernandez says Barcelona remain mentally prepared for Sunday’s El Clasico against Real Madrid despite their recent defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, as the midfielder prepares to experience one of football’s biggest rivalries for the first time.
Speaking to DAZN during a media day on Friday, October 23, Rodri described his return to Spanish football as an opportunity to play in matches that attract worldwide attention.
“It’s a great joy to return to Spanish football and experience a Clásico, given its worldwide significance,” he said, as reported by Mundo Deportivo.
The midfielder added that the global audience surrounding El Clasico gives players a special opportunity to showcase their abilities.
Rodri wary of Real Madrid
Rodri expects Real Madrid to approach the match with determination, despite Barcelona’s recent advantage in their head-to-head record.
“Madrid have a different style of play from ours, but the competitive spirit is always there, especially in matches of this magnitude, so we expect Real Madrid to give everything,” he said.
He also pointed to Madrid’s recent record against Barcelona, saying their desire to reverse that trend could make them particularly motivated.
“I think they’ve won only one of the last six or seven Clásicos, so they’ll be eager to put that right,” he said.
Rodri also praised Jose Mourinho’s managerial influence, describing him as a coach with a strong personality and a distinctive philosophy who raises the competitive level of the teams he leads.
Barcelona focused after PSG setback
Barcelona head into the encounter following their defeat to PSG in Paris, but Rodri insisted the result had not weakened the team’s determination.
“It’s true that we’re coming off that setback in Paris, but our mentality remains intact, and we’re determined to keep doing things well,” he said.
The match will also draw attention to Rodri following reports that he had been a transfer target for Real Madrid before ultimately joining Barcelona.
With both clubs seeking to assert themselves in the rivalry, Rodri’s first El Clasico will provide an important test as Barcelona look to respond to their recent setback.
