Carvajal reveals Real Madrid role in Rodri talks and backs Vinicius Junior to recover

Dani Carvajal has revealed that he tried to persuade Spain captain Rodri to join Real Madrid during last summer’s transfer window, before Barcelona changed the course of the midfielder’s move to Camp Nou.

The former Real Madrid captain, who now plays for Getafe, said he had spoken directly to Rodri during the negotiations and answered some of his questions.

Asked by El Larguero on Cadena SER whether he had been surprised by Rodri’s decision to sign for Barcelona, Carvajal said: “You should ask Rodri about that as well. I spoke to him, he asked me some questions and I tried to convince him. I think there were others on the other side as well… I am sure he has his reasons for choosing to play there at Barcelona.”

Real Madrid had opened discussions with Rodri strongly last summer, but Barcelona subsequently intervened and directed the player towards a move to Camp Nou.

Carvajal believes Rodri would have strengthened any side, including Real Madrid.

“Every team would want to sign a player like Rodri,” he said. “He is an amazing player and it is difficult to find someone like him. He would be a great addition to any team.”

The former Real Madrid captain also offered support to Vinicius Junior, who has endured a difficult period and was recently sent off.

“In every career, there are always difficult moments, and I think Vinicius is going through one, especially after being sent off recently,” Carvajal said. “But he has to remain calm because he has just renewed his contract. He is a wonderful player and an exceptional person.”

Carvajal added that he expected Vinicius Junior to return to his best, drawing on difficult experiences they had shared at Real Madrid.

“I know Vinicius will come back in his best form because he has overcome more difficult situations,” he said. “I experienced those moments with him in the dressing room.”

Asked whether he had spoken to Vinicius Junior about the possibility of leaving Real Madrid, Carvajal replied: “I have not had the opportunity to speak to him in great detail about that subject, but I know Real Madrid was involved in the renewal of his contract… and I know he may not have been short of offers to leave.”

The fixture listings accompanying the report include Barcelona in La Liga on 31 October 2026, while Deportivo Alaves play Racing Santander in La Liga on 1 November 2026. Real Madrid are also listed for action on 1 November 2026.