Rodri issued an apology to Valencia after his disparaging remarks were exposed.
Barcelona thumped Valencia 5‑0 at the Mestalla, leaving the Catalans winless after four league games.
Movistar cameras caught Rodri on the bench mouthing, “They’re really weak, they never get past midfield,” while he spoke to Pau Cubarsi and Raphinha.
The broadcaster paired the silent clip with a voice‑over that reproduced the words, prompting Rodri to call Valencia midfielder José Luis Gaya and apologise.
For my money, the mea culpa was long overdue. He reiterated his contrition after Barcelona’s 5‑1 Champions League triumph over Feyenoord.
In the mixed zone Rodri began, “First, I apologise to anyone who felt offended. I called my friend José Luis Gaya and said I’m sorry to him and the whole squad.”
He added that his comment was a moment of surprise and not meant to mock; the video shows no intent to belittle anyone.
Rodri hopes Valencia regain their status among Spain’s elite, stressing the chat was private and urging everyone to remember context matters.
Barcelona opened the Feyenoord tie with goals from Karim Adeyemi, Lamine Yamal, a brace by Raphinha and Gabriel Jesus’s first for the club, sealing a dominant start to the campaign.
Next up Barcelona travel to face Levante on Sunday. Can the team sustain this momentum against the coastal side?