Barcelona midfielder Rodri has apologised to Valencia and their players after television footage appeared to show him describing the struggling La Liga side as “very weak”.
The comment was reportedly made while Rodri was on the bench during Barcelona’s 5–0 league win over Valencia on Sunday. The result left Valencia without a win from their opening four league matches.
Rodri later apologised to Valencia captain José Gayà and the entire squad, explaining that his words were part of a private conversation and were not meant to disrespect or mock the club.
The 30-year-old, who was named the Golden Ball winner after Spain’s 2026 World Cup triumph, said the comment was an expression of surprise at Valencia’s performance rather than an attempt to make fun of their difficult situation.
Rodri also praised Valencia as one of the best clubs in the league and said he hopes they can recover and return to their best level.
