The Portuguese coach of Real Madrid counted on Rodri as a key piece of his new squad, but the Spaniard is on the verge of joining Barcelona, triggering a domino effect at both giants.
Real Madrid's transfer plans have suffered a heavy blow. Spanish international and Manchester City star Rodri will most likely continue his career at the Santiago Bernabéu's biggest rival, Barcelona, instead. This news has sparked a strong reaction from the Portuguese strategist on the Royal Club's bench.
According to Spanish outlet SPORT, Mourinho reacted furiously upon learning that his main midfield target was heading to Barcelona. The outcome reportedly hit him particularly hard because he had built a large part of his tactical plans for the new season around Rodri's arrival, considering him the player who would solve a key problem in midfield.
After the failed transfer, the Portuguese coach held several tense meetings with club officials. The board then informed him that they do not intend to bring in a new midfielder during the remainder of the transfer window. As a result, Mourinho will have to adapt his lineup with the players currently at his disposal.
In the new system, Bernardo Silva and Arda Güler are expected to take on greater roles in organizing play. Silva could drop deeper into midfield and play alongside French international Aurélien Tchouaméni in front of the defense. On the other hand, young Turkish midfielder Güler is set to take on even more responsibility in creation.
According to reports, Mourinho sees Güler as a potential main playmaker, similar to the role Mesut Özil once had. The coaching staff will use the final weeks of preseason to fine-tune the new system, and the club hopes that Silva and Güler's technical quality could mitigate the lack of a classic defensive midfielder.
Rodri's decision has also impacted other clubs' plans. Manchester United, led by Michael Carrick, reportedly closely monitored the situation around Tchouaméni. The English club hoped that the French international could become available for transfer if Real Madrid signed Rodri. After the latest twist, that possibility has become significantly less likely.
While Plan B is brewing in Madrid, Barcelona is preparing for the arrival of a major reinforcement. Negotiations with Manchester City are ongoing, and Rodri's arrival would significantly reshape the midfield under coach Hansi Flick.
First in line are Frenkie de Jong and Marc Casadó. De Jong, who is still recovering from a serious knee injury, will face much greater competition for a starting spot upon his return. As for Casadó, Flick has already made it clear that it would be best for him to find a new club, and now everything points to a move to the Saudi Roshn League.
Another La Masia talent, 19-year-old Toni Marquez, is also on his way out. Sporting director Deco will seek a deal with a buy-back clause, ensuring financial gain and control over the player's future. On the other hand, his peer Marc Bernal could benefit. Goal.com reports that Rodri, despite a short-term block, would be the "best possible mentor" for Bernal given his youth and potential.
Bernal has shown an eye for goal through the youth ranks and last season with the first team, meaning he could share the pitch with Rodri and take on a more offensive role. In contrast, Pedri and Gavi remain untouchable for Hansi Flick, and their roles in the new system with Rodri could become even more significant.
