La Liga: Rodri apologises after describing Valencia as ‘very weak’

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Barcelona’s new player, Spanish international Rodrigo Hernandez “Rodri” gestures to supporters during the 61st Joan Gamper Trophy football match between FC Barcelona and Al Ahly FC at the Camp Nou Stadium in Barcelona on August 19, 2026. (Photo by Lluis GENE / AFP)

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By Adegboyega Adeleye

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Barcelona midfielder Rodri has apologised to Valencia after television footage appeared to show him describing the La Liga side as “very weak”.

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According to the BBC, Rodri allegedly made the comments to Barcelona teammates Pau Cubarsí and Raphinha while sitting on the bench after being substituted during Sunday’s 5-0 win at Mestalla.

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The footage has no audio, but Spanish broadcaster Movistar said it had lip-read Rodri as saying, “They’re really weak. They haven’t got past the halfway line.”

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The comments sparked criticism from Valencia fans and sections of the Spanish media, with Rodri accused of disrespecting the struggling club.

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Rodri, however, said he had apologised to Valencia captain and Spain teammate José Gayà as well as the entire squad.

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“I also want to make it clear that it was simply an expression of surprise,” Rodri said after Barcelona’s 5-1 Champions League victory over Feyenoord on Wednesday.

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“At no point did I intend to mock anyone or take a difficult moment for a team out of context.”

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Rodri said his comments were made during a private conversation and had been taken out of context.

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“But at no point did I mean any disrespect. My apologies to Valencia,” he added.

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Valencia are bottom of La Liga after failing to win any of their opening four matches, while Barcelona have made a perfect start to the campaign.

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Rodri joined Barcelona this summer in a £65 million move from Manchester City after helping Spain win the 2026 World Cup, where he was named the tournament’s Golden Ball winner.

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