Flick hails Rodri signing ahead of Barcelona's season opener

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick hailed the signing of Spain midfielder Rodri as the club completed its preseason preparations with a 2-1 win over Egyptian side Al-Ahly in the Joan Gamper Trophy on Wednesday.

FC Barcelona's Fermin Lopez (R) competes during the 61st Joan Gamper Trophy football match between FC Barcelona and Al Ahly FC in Barcelona, Spain, Aug. 19, 2026. (Photo by Joan Gosa/Xinhua)

Rodri signed a four-year contract with Barcelona on Tuesday after leaving Manchester City, having rejected an offer from Real Madrid.

Speaking to Barcelona's official channels before Wednesday's match at the Camp Nou, Flick said the 30-year-old would be an important addition to his squad.

"It's a great opportunity for us to have Rodri. We were all 100 percent convinced about signing him because he's a fantastic player," Flick said.

The German described Rodri as the "best No. 6" in the world and praised his ability to dictate play while contributing defensively.

"He's a player who brings something special to any team, and for me, it's fantastic to have him here," Flick said.

Rodri's passing ability and positional play should suit Barcelona's possession-based approach as the reigning Spanish champion prepares to defend its La Liga title.

Barcelona took a 2-0 lead before halftime against Al-Ahly through young striker Hamza Abdelkarim and a Raphinha penalty.

Ahmed Sayed Zizo pulled a goal back for the Egyptian side five minutes after the break, while Anthony Gordon missed a late penalty that would have restored Barcelona's two-goal advantage.

The Joan Gamper Trophy was Barcelona's final preseason match before Flick's side begins its La Liga campaign away to Elche on Sunday.