We are going to witness beautiful football

Fans are ecstatic to see summer arrival Rodri starting for Barcelona in the La Liga game at Valencia on Sunday (September 6). The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner arrived at the Camp Nou from Manchester City in a deal reportedly worth £65 million.

Rodri, 30, made his Barca debut in a 2-0 home win over Athletic Club last month, coming on for the final 27 minutes. He also featured in the 5-2 home victory over Rayo Vallecano, playing 26 minutes.

Having led Spain to their second FIFA World Cup title in North America in the summer, Rodri is now set to make his first start for the Blaugrana, thrilling fans, who shared their reactions:

“We are going to witness Beautiful football 💙❤️🔥🔥,” one tweeted.

“FC RODRI’S FIRST START 😮‍💨🔥 New chapter begins today. Time to show us what that midfield is made of 🔵🔴⚡️,” another commented.

“Finalllyyyy Now we’ll see how greatly we control the tempo of the game with our midfield 🫡,” one posted.

“Rodri gets in!! 😝. The midfield should be commanding with his presence, hopefully he has fully regained match fitness,” another posted.

Hansi Flick’s side are atop the standings after winning their opening three games and will go three points clear at the top if they win at the Mestalla.

“He’s a fantastic player” – Barcelona boss Hansi Flick hails Rodri

Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick hailed new signing Rodri after the club announced his arrival from Manchester City last month. The Spaniard had spent the seven previous seasons at the Etihad.

Rodri, 30, is now set for a new stint with the Blaugrana as he looks to help the reigning La Liga champions continue their domestic success and win their first UEFA Champions League title in more than a decade.

“He’s a fantastic player who brings something special to every team, and for me it’s brilliant to have him here,” Flick said (as per GOAL).

“I think he might be the best number 6. He can control the game, but he also helps out in defence. He can win aerial duels, which is very important for us, and of course he raises the standard of every player.”

Following their La Liga game at Valencia on Sunday, Barcelona open their UEFA Champions League campaign at home to Feyenoord three days later.

Edited by Bhargav