Barcelona midfielder Rodri revealed he called José Mourinho this summer after deciding to turn down Real Madrid in favor of joining their Clásico rivals.

Rodri, 30, completed a move from Manchester City to Barça in a deal worth an initial €60 million ($69.2m) after seven years in England. The Spain international was also pursued by Madrid but chose Barça after speaking with both Hansi Flick and Mourinho.

"It wasn't easy at all. Saying no to Madrid is not easy," Rodri said. "In the end, Deco and Hansi convinced me." He added that he called Mourinho to thank him for the interest and praised the Portuguese coach's professionalism.

Rodri has settled quickly into the Barça team, which has won all six of their opening matches — five in La Liga and one in the Champions League — scoring 26 goals. He believes his experience and leadership can help the young squad grow and compete for major European titles.