Rodri apologises to Valencia fans and confirms his understanding with Pedri at FC Barcelona

Spanish midfielder Rodri has made a point of apologising after the controversy sparked by comments captured by Movistar cameras while he was on the bench at Mestalla. He confirmed that he has indeed spoken with José Gayà to apologise, expressing his hope for Valencia to return to the position they deserve.

Movistar cameras captured Rodri speaking with his teammates on the bench, where he appeared surprised by the level Valencia showed. This was before the FC Barcelona player stepped out after the victory over Feyenoord to speak to the media and clarify his position.

Rodri said: "I would like to apologize to anyone who felt offended by my words, whether players or fans. I have already spoken to my friend Gayà to apologize to him. It was a reaction born out of surprise, and I hope Valencia can return to the place it deserves."

After the victory over Feyenoord, Rodri expressed his happiness with the level FC Barcelona showed, saying: "We did a great job, and this proves the fierceness of this team and its great desire to achieve great things. The dressing room reflected this spirit from the outside, and that was one of the reasons for my arrival. I am here to add."

The midfielder addressed his on-field relationship with Pedri, having started alongside him for the second consecutive match, denying what has been said about their lack of synergy. He stated: "Honestly, I don't understand that very well. It's very easy to play alongside Pedri and understand him. You have to adapt, but not with Pedri, rather with the new mechanisms of the pivot position. Playing alongside players like Pedri makes things easier for you, not more complicated. I don't understand the opinion that we don't harmonize well. We understand each other wonderfully and have been playing together for a while."

Rodri praised his quick adaptation to FC Barcelona, highlighting the love he feels from the fans. He said: "This makes everything much easier. I am here to show the player I am, to deliver the level they expect, and to help my teammates develop."

Rodri concluded his remarks by stressing the importance of calmness during the season, stating: "The season is very long, I came to bring this calm and serenity."