Barcelona had a very productive summer transfer window, which was headlined by [the signing of Rodri from Manchester City](https://barcanewsnetwork.com/official-rodri-joins-from-manchester-city-barcelona-was-always-my-first-choice/). The 30-year-old headed to the Spotify Camp Nou fresh off the back of winning the 2026 World Cup Golden Ball, and he will hope to make a big impression for the back-to-back La Liga champions.
So far, Rodri has yet to make his first start for Hansi Flick’s side, with two appearances from the bench against Athletic Club and Rayo Vallecano. He’s been building back up after undergoing minor surgery in the days after the World Cup triumph, and he will soon be ready to be named in the starting line-up. When he does, he’s been backed to make a big impression by former Barcelona striker Robert Lewandowski, as per Marca (via [MD](https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/fc-barcelona/20260903/1004222859/lewandowski-rodri-necesita-barca-equipo-le-falta-experiencia.html)).
**“Rodri is a player who knows what Barça need. He knows how to play forward, but also how to play a little more in defence. He also adds experience that I think was missing in the team. He is a player who not only shone in the World Cup, but for many years, he has been playing at the highest level.”**
Lewandowski left Barcelona at the start of the summer to join Chicago Fire, and while he is no longer part of Flick’s squad, he has made it clear that he will be supporting his former teammates from the United States.
**“I’m a cold guy. I’m not a very emotional man, but in my heart, I still support Barcelona. They were four very beautiful years for me in Barcelona. I’m always there to support and help Barcelona and my former teammates. But there is a moment when you have to do something else, a new step, and now I’m very happy. I’m always there to support and help FC Barcelona and my former teammates. I hope that in the end I can also celebrate titles with Barcelona from here.”**