Rodri warns Real Madrid cannot disguise their strength ahead of El Clasico

Rodri believes Real Madrid remain a formidable opponent regardless of their current form or the circumstances surrounding the club, and says Barcelona must produce their best performance to win Sunday’s major La Liga contest.

Real Madrid travel to face Barcelona at Spotify Camp Nou on Sunday evening in the 10th round of La Liga. Rodri, the Spanish international and Barcelona midfielder, said he was not convinced by any attempt from the visitors to appear weaker than they really are.

Asked by ESPN whether Real Madrid could be misleading their opponents by falling short of their expected level, Rodri said: “They do not fool us, or at least they do not fool me.”

He added: “I have known the Real Madrid players well for many years and have faced them in many knockout ties. I have learned that one of their greatest strengths is their ability to make opponents believe they are not playing at that level.”

Rodri, a former Manchester City star, said Real Madrid’s threat should not be judged solely on their recent performances.

“Real Madrid are always an extremely strong opponent, regardless of the level they are showing or the circumstances around them,” he said.

“As for us, and this is what I try to communicate to my team-mates, we have to produce our best level if we want to beat them.”

Rodri also outlined the contribution he hopes to make at Barcelona, highlighting his experience and leadership as important qualities he can offer the squad.

“I believe the most important things I can give this team are my experience, as well as the leadership role I carry out,” he said. “I can help organise my team-mates and instil a positive mentality in them.”

“Perhaps I can also raise their spirits and support them during the difficult moments we may go through during matches.”

Rodri focused on adding quality

The midfielder said the standard within the Barcelona squad was already high, particularly in midfield, but insisted he had joined the club to make a further contribution.

“From a footballing point of view, it is clear that the level here is extremely high,” Rodri said. “All the players, especially those in midfield, possess considerable quality.”

“It is clear that I came to Barcelona to add something, and I believe I can help the team even more from a technical perspective.”