Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has disclosed that Rodri’s hesitation over joining the Spanish giants contributed to the midfielder eventually choosing a move to Barcelona.

Rodri left Manchester City for Barcelona after previously being linked with a return to Spain through a transfer to Real Madrid. Mourinho said he was personally involved in conversations with the Spain international during the negotiations and became aware of his reservations.

Speaking on Spanish television programme El Chiringuito, Mourinho said Real Madrid had made an attractive proposal to the midfielder but suggested that the player’s uncertainty raised questions about whether he was fully convinced about joining the club.

“I spoke with Rodri a couple of times. Real Madrid made him a very good offer. But Rodri had doubts; he doubted, and I think what happened is that the doubts Rodri had gave me doubts,” Mourinho said.

The Portuguese coach acknowledged Rodri’s quality but stressed that representing Real Madrid requires a player to have an unequivocal desire to join the club.

“He’s an extraordinary player. But I think Real Madrid are so big that we can’t have players who think twice,” he added.

Mourinho also revealed that he personally contacted Vinícius Júnior when the Brazilian forward was considering his future, urging him not to leave the Santiago Bernabéu.

According to Mourinho, he asked Vinícius where he could possibly go after becoming accustomed to life at Real Madrid, warning the forward that he might only understand the magnitude of the club after leaving.

“I called Vini Jr and told him: Vini, where do you want to go? You only know Real Madrid. When you leave, then you’ll know what Real Madrid is,” Mourinho said.

Mourinho then delivered a blunt message to the Brazilian: “Don’t go. It’s not worth it.” Vinícius has since committed his future to Real Madrid by signing a new six-year contract, ending speculation over a possible departure amid reported interest from Arsenal.