Rodri already had Real Madrid’s number, and one of his own compatriots was working the phone. Cucurella, one of Real Madrid’s summer signings under José Mourinho, has revealed he messaged the Spain midfielder privately before Barcelona’s move became public.

“It’s true that I sent him a subtle message, before the news broke, saying I hoped we’d become teammates,” Cucurella told Cadena SER’s El Larguero.

“He replied, but didn’t give anything away.”

The message went nowhere. Rodri completed a move from Manchester City to Barcelona on 18 August worth up to €76.5m, an initial €60m plus €16.5m in add-ons, on a four-year contract under Hansi Flick.

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Cucurella insisted he was not trying to twist an old friend’s arm.

“I don’t really like pressuring or influencing teammates. These are personal things.”

The Barcelona flirtation that wasn’t

Cucurella himself was floated as a Barcelona target over the summer, but he shot the story down.

“No, no, no. My agent received a few calls, but it didn’t go any further than that. I don’t think that can be considered genuine interest,” he said.

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Mourinho made the left-back a priority on his return to Madrid. Sky Sports reported a fee of £47.5m plus up to £4.3m in add-ons, taking the total to £51.8m, on a six-year contract that runs to 2032.

The Bernabéu is not laughing yet

The pitch has not rewarded Real Madrid’s summer. Defeats to Real Betis and Atlético Madrid before the international break left Mourinho’s side six points behind Barcelona, who have opened LaLiga with seven wins from seven under Flick.

Cucurella asked for patience.

“It’s all a process, but the important thing is to build a solid foundation. Let’s see if we can find a good balance and build a strong, united group. If the season ends the way we all want it to, no one will remember the start.”

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He was less generous when the conversation returned to his one-time recruit.

“I’m happy for him, but I hope he doesn’t have too much success.”

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