'It's a pity for him!' - Thibaut Courtois hits back at Rodri after ex-Man City ace snubs Real Madrid for Barcelona transfer

Courtois has sent a clear message to Rodri after the Spanish international completed his move to Barcelona. The 34-year-old goalkeeper, known for his straight-talking nature, did not mince words when asked about the midfielder's decision to snub Real Madrid. Following Los Blancos' dramatic victory over Espanyol, Courtois addressed the elephant in the room regarding the former City man's choice of destination.

"Every player chooses where they want to be. If he didn't want to be with us, well, that's a pity... for him," Courtois said "In the end, he's a great player, but he made his choice, and that's it." The remarks come after the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner was reportedly staying at the same hotel as the Real Madrid squad in Catalonia just before their clash with Espanyol.

"He stays in our hotel? Well, the hotel is big, there will be many people there," Courtois added.

While Courtois focused on the player's choice, new Blancos boss Jose Mourinho has provided an insight into why the move collapsed. The Portuguese coach confirmed that while Real Madrid were interested, the player’s own indecision played a significant role in the deal falling through. Mourinho insisted that the club's prestige means they cannot wait for players who are not fully committed to the cause from the very first contact.

"I spoke to him a couple of times and Real Madrid made him a very good offer," Mourinho explained. "I think there is a very good relationship with City. Without negotiating with City, the club made contact with Rodri, they made him a major offer. Rodri had doubts, he hesitated and Rodri’s doubts created doubts for me."

Despite the interest from the capital, Barcelona moved quickly to secure their man. Hansi Flick identified the Spaniard as the priority signing to anchor his new-look midfield, especially given the ongoing injury concerns surrounding Frenkie de Jong. The Catalan giants eventually committed to a substantial financial package to ensure they beat their rivals to the signature of the Premier League's standout deep-lying playmaker.

Mourinho has been quick to dismiss suggestions that Madrid are now short-handed in the middle of the park. He emphasised that the development of his existing players is the priority, rather than dwelling on the one that got away during the summer window.

"I am not lacking Rodri," Mourinho stated firmly when asked about his squad depth. "We are not lacking players. I’m not saying there won’t be any more signings because the market is open, but if you ask me directly if it’s closed for me… yes. It is closed. I really like the squad."